Syracuse University Reviews

Check out reviews left by other students or leave your own review. You could win a free scholarship.

Angela from Syracuse, NY

07/21/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

45 out of 45 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

- athletes, whether club or intercollegiate (Division I, baby!) - those interested in special interest organizations (fraternities/sororities, honors fraternities, cultural fraternities/sororities, other cultural clubs, LGBT, political clubs, media/journalism -- TV, radio, newspaper, diverse religious communities, general student/resident life, learning communities, entrepreneurship, and student government, just to name a few) - those benefiting most from a large student body, located on multiple campuses in an urban setting - those who like to have fun -- social events and nightlife stay active (pausing for breaks at Finals time, and for weather) - last / not least: those unafraid of a little bit of snow. :)

Tips for prospective students

- Plenty of students find SU to be the right fit for them socially and academically, but not financially. Make sure you feel fiscally comfortable with the choice. - Find a club -- and find one early! You will make invaluable friendships in a common interest activity, which can often help not only socially but academically too! - Winter approaches near the end of October, and won't quit often until March or April. Make sure you're comfortable with the climate, and although it gets only moderately cold, the snow really piles up. - Student employment opportunities vary -- foodservice to restaurants, clerical to tutoring. They disappear quickly, so apply ASAP! - If you don't like the color orange, SU may not be right for you.

Bang for the buck

The tuition is quite steep (>$30,000/yr currently), but quite a bit can be offered in the way of aid, to those deserving. Once you can afford it along with with room and board, you'll feel secure knowing that you can be taken care of completely. I'd suggest finding a campus job early -- many are easy and can pay well, in the dining halls or offices, for example.

Am enjoying being here

The BEST campus, with the most variety in programming that I've ever seen in a college or university. Even commuters feel welcomed, but that doesn't limit the outreach of the residence hall association -- they're pretty awesome as well! There's a huge number of clubs, organizations, fraternities, sororities, activities, and events going on ALL THE TIME. I have yet to find someone who hasn't had fun at least once in their first year, and there are thousands of new people to meet EVERYWHERE!!

Am learning a lot

The selection of classes is amazing -- it is impossible to be disinterested in each and every one. Even in the required courses (generally speaking, there's only one, all the rest are options) you will be able to learn and stay interested consistently. The professors generally want you to do well, and there are many ways students can do that. Every class has something to offer, and you're free to choose.

Alison from Schenectady, NY

The best thing about SU is that it's great for all students. There's a great blend of different people at SU, it doesn't just cater to one type of student so you get a bunch of different experiences.

Tips for prospective students

Syracuse may seem big - it's what worried me about the school, but it's really not as big as it seems. You will walk across the quad and know at least one person. Get involved in clubs, you'll make so many friends through them.

Bang for the buck

I would say Syracuse's price is the worst thing about it. They have a pretty good financial aid department, but the school itself is just incredibly expensive. However, though it is expensive your money is going to a good place as the dorms are relatively nice for dorms and there are tons of clubs and such paid for by your student fee.

Am enjoying being here

I love being at Syracuse. The first three weeks were hard to adjust, but that's normal for any freshman. After getting used to the campus I never wanted to leave. It's summer now and I am counting down the days until I can go back to school.

Am learning a lot

Syracuse's classes are absolutely fantastic. They have so many classes in so many different majors and almost all the Professors really know what they're talking about and genuinely seem to care about their students. I've only been at SU for a year but I feel like I am really getting prepared everyday to enter the work force.

Raneish from Bay Shore, NY

Great for a student who wants to get the best out of their college experience. Great for student with lots of school spirit and students who want to be involved.

Tips for prospective students

Do not just pick a school because of reviews. Make sure you visit as many schools as possible. Do not choose a college that you have never been to, you won't see the bad sides of schools in the brochure. Also try to collect as many scholarships and grants as possible, college is not cheap.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is a very expensive school, but it's worth it. They have relatively good financial aid. A lot of students have a lot of their cost of attendance paid for.

Am enjoying being here

I love Syracuse University. It is full of energy and amazing people and activities. There is a place for everyone and everything. No matter what you want to do there is someone else who wants to join you. Another great thing about SU is the academic support. Every single subject has a a tutor and there are students who willing to help as long as you need help.

Am learning a lot

I am learning everything there is to know about being alone in college, from the cost to the problems. The biggest lesson I learned was, college is not cheap. From day one it has been nothing but money, money and more money. From printing out essay to doing laundry, nothing is free. Also time management was a big wake up call. There is no one to remind you when assignments are due. When you get to college your planner is your best friend. Yes studying and doing work is important, but do not try to kill yourself with the all nighters, especially freshmen year. Yes college is way more work than high school, but it isn't unmanageable. Go out with your friends have fun, meet new people and network. In the real world the connects you make in college may turn out to be very useful.

Fiona from Long Valley, NJ

01/05/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 9 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Anyone who wants a great, well-rounded college experience! Campus is huge and there are always people to meet and activities to participate in as well as a huge class variety. Great for sports enthusiasts, art enthusiasts, friendly people, anyone who really likes snow...

Tips for prospective students

Syracuse is a big school- everyone can find a place here. Admissions officers like diversity, so don't try to blend in! Same thing once you get here- it sounds cheesy but just be who you are, and you will find people like you who you get along with. And don't worry...you'll learn to love the color orange. Also, invest in a pair of snow boots and a classy wool pea coat-practically a uniform up here in the cold!

Bang for the buck

Tuition is ridiculous, but that's not just Syracuse. Without financial aid, I would have to pay over $54,000 per year for tuition and housing but once you decide to attend, SU is great about helping you out. I have good grades, but I also qualified for need-based scholarships- my family now has to pay less than $8,000 per year, including my housing. Also, campus jobs are easy to find if you look quickly! Unlike other schools, there is clarity about where the money is going- we have great public transportation, the sidewalks are always shoveled, buildings are well maintained, and the staff is superb. Orientation is also a great experience- I am still best friends with some of the girls I met through the program.

Am enjoying being here

Such a great vibe- there is something for everyone! It's a huge sports school (we just won the Pinstripe Bowl! And the basketball team is amazing!) but there are also opportunities to get involved politically, in Greek life, or in any number of great extracurriculars. SU is also very open-minded; there is a big LGBT organization on campus. There's a nondenominational chapel, too, where there are services and events for all different religious groups. Housing is good, the dining halls are huge, and the diverse campus has a great atmosphere. Not to mention loads of house parties and a bunch of cool party scenes nearby, too!

Am learning a lot

There are a phenomenal number of classes here, and it's very easy to take classes outside of your major. I am a dual music major, but I am also working on a business minor. I haven't yet had any classes that I regret taking, or where I felt like I didn't learn anything. Some professors may have big classes, but if you make yourself stick out in class you will get as much attention from them as you need to get the grades you want!

Enjoy the warm weather while it lasts! Sit on the quad! Gear up for winter, because it'll be here before you know it.

Bang for the buck

If you engage yourself amongst your peers, classes, work, etc. You'll get everything you want out of Syracuse University.

Am enjoying being here

SU has a great social scene. It has great diversity which provides an opportunity to expand your horizon.

Am learning a lot

Syracuse University is a large university providing numerous courses, majors, minors, etc. Syracuse University even has the opportunity for you to create your own major! As someone interested in the sciences/mathematics, Syracuse University not only offers the general courses, but they provide classes that are geared towards your own specific interest in the sciences (ex. Science + Teaching? = Science Teaching elective major!!). In general, the professors are more than approachable. They encourage questions, discussions, and even debates/arguments. If you want a school that gives you an opportunity to acquire your personal academic goals, or the chance to explore others, Syracuse University is that place.

Ian from Buford, GA

People seeking a challenge, individuals who love social interaction, a great campus community, and sports fanatics.

Tips for prospective students

When applying make sure you are a well rounded student, this is a very sports intensive university. Even the students who are not on varsity sports play some kind of sport. They want students who can benefit the university academically as well as socially. It makes a better experience for all.

Bang for the buck

While the university is quite expensive, I believe the cost is ultimately worth it. With strong extra-curricular activities, a stellar sports program, and amazing academics, I feel the price tag is well worth it.

Am enjoying being here

The school offers a little of everything, they have a strong intramural program, which can range from soccer to kendo. As well as one of the best basketball programs in the country. The staff, professor's, all the way to the student body are wonderful to be around, and I can be certain when I say, without there pleasantness, my college experience would be different.

Am learning a lot

It is the most academically rigorous school I have ever attended, I am constantly being pushed to my limits academically, and becoming a more intelligent person because of it.

Imani from Syracuse, NY

09/17/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The safety alerts from the DPS officers keep everyone on campus up to date and aware of activities on campus. The DPS officers are the 3rd largest system of law enforcement in the city of Syracuse. DPS stands for Department of Public Safety.

Greek Life

25% of students on our campus are apart of a Greek organization. That's one out of every four people.

Clubs and Activities

There are plenty to join around campus. There's literally a club or a program for everything!

Great for these types of students

Syracuse is great for communications majors. We have the number one communications program in the nation at Newhouse.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's the forever alone bench near HBC. Rumor has it, if you sit on the bench by yourself, you will be destined to be alone for the rest of your life. But, these are just rumors of course!

Bang for the buck

You can work for food services as a starting job. It's one of the easiest jobs to get on campus, they always need new people and they are the highest paying job on campus.

What to do for fun

There's an ice skating rink on south campus some students go to. There are many extra-curricular sports, activities, and events that occur everyday. Last but not least, there are plenty of parties to attend.

Food and Dining

The dinning hall food is great because there's a large selection. If you don't have a meal plan, there are various cafe's all over campus where you can purchase food. If it's late at night, you can order food off of grubhub.com and have it delivered to your location on campus. There's plenty of options!

Dorm Life

The dorms are okay. All first-year students are expected to live in one. However, after the first year, you have the option to move to south campus which I consider much better. You can live in apartments that have their own kitchen, bathroom and separate bedrooms.

Academic Rigor

Expect the academics to be hard. However, don't expect any college course load to come easy. When things pick up around the middle of the semester and there's so many things to do, it can be stressful. However, if you manage your time well, everything will work out.

Tips for prospective students

You should know why you want to go here and how it will benefit you. Be ready to get involved in one of the great extra-curricular activities that the school offers. Make as many connections with the school as you can before applying or during the application process, as it will increase your chances of getting accepted.

In three sentences

This school has an immense amount of school pride. The list of things to do on campus is endless. Everyone who goes here is really happy to be a student here and always puts their best foot forward in everything they do.

Christopher from Flemington, NJ

Students who have a balance of work and play. You want to party hard, but you also want to work hard. And not just on math problems. On real world stuff.

Tips for prospective students

Do not be afraid to start something new here or propose something big (an extracurricular, an event, a speaker). Syracuse University is a great place to try out new ideas because it is highly supportive of the mindset, Scholarship in Action.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is a fairly pricy school. There are many merit and need-based scholarships available to offset this. Be prepared to spend much more than you expected on the extracurriculars you involve yourself with. There are so many trips, events, and conferences that you will not want to pass up.

Am enjoying being here

Socially, Syracuse is a very fun school. Do not let the cold discourage you! The snow stops nothing up here and yes, although you may have to bundle up here, it will not prevent you from having the All-American college experience.

Am learning a lot

Syracuse University has amazing, proactive faculty members that are quick to immerse themselves in activties and events with their students. Your college education is what you make of it, and Syracuse, with its esteemed faculty, renowned abroad program, and wealth of extracurriculars and scholarships, you'll be given all the tools you need.

Brianna from Cambria Heights, NY

01/15/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

There's such a wide variety of activities, and courses, and people at Syracuse, that there's a little something for whomever applies. And just in case you arrive and there isn't something for you, it's not anything an email to the Student Association can't fix. So, without being too generic and saying everyone, there's definitely alot here.

Tips for prospective students

* It's cold 90% of the time, so pack a lot of warm things. * You're better off buying room furnishings outside of the school, despite the fact that there's a Bed, Bath and Beyond on-campus for Orientation weekend. Do get either a fridge or microwave, or discuss it with your roommate that they have one they're willing to share. * Explore not only the campus, but Syracuse the city itself. It might surprise you! * Go to Home To The Dome! People might tell you oh its lame and blah, but that's where I met one of my closest girlfriends right now, and it really is a lot of fun.

Bang for the buck

Here's where SU may potentially fall down. The tution is definitely not on the small side, and the type of grants that could take a chunk out of the hefty tuition are only awarded to those who have the stellar grades to back it up. In the end, even though it is an excellent school, if its out of your realm financially, there's probably another school just as excellent out there for you (unless, of course, you're prepared to apply for several scholarships and outside grants).

Am enjoying being here

Syracuse U. is definitely a lot of fun. We have guest speakers, dances, and several performers, both inside of SU and out. Last semester, Day 26 performed in our Student Center! And the coolest thing is that the Student Association is always up for suggestions about events to put on. So there never is a lack of things to do. I will admit, when I first arrived, I suffered from a bit of homesickness, but that isn't unnatural and had nothing to do with the school itself. More importantly, once I found the right group of girls and guys who are now my closest friends, and then discovered all these fun things to do, there was never a reason to feel homesick again.

Am learning a lot

The one benefit to any college is the fact that you get to choose your own courses, as opposed to having the institution direct what classes to take. But I believe what puts Syracuse U. ahead of the pack is the variety of courses available. The other day my friends and I were having a conversation about taking a class on puppeteering for the upcoming semester! The options are endless, and as a result, my learning capabilities are endless. Add to that, a staff of enthusiastic professors ready to teach, and you have yourself great opportunities to learn.

Erin from Minoa, NY

Any student at all! Syracuse University has everything you can imagine!

Tips for prospective students

-Keep an open mind! Don't expect anything but to enjoy yourself. Sometimes setting expectations will hinder your time here at SU and sometimes not having enough will knock your socks off. So to be on the safe side, just stay neutral. -Get involved as soon as you can and make yourself the go-to-person. Every organization wants that person. Plus, it will come in handy when elections role around to be the person everyone can rely on. -Don't forget about your health or sanity. Don't over stress about tests. Do the work when it's assigned and complete everything on time. The quicker and more efficient school work is done, the more time for play! -Remember to tell your parents you love them. If your headed to SU from California, make sure your folks know your going to miss them and that their kid's going to be just fine. Or if your a local and only going to be a few minutes away, call up good ol'Mom and Dad to come eat at the dinning hall every once in a while. They like to know they're money's not going to waste plus, they love to see their precious baby.

Bang for the buck

SU isn't cheap. Don't let the financial aid office fool you. However, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. SU feels right for most kids because you really do feel at home. the professors are great and many of them are top in their fields. The student life is awesome and there are endless opportunities for employment, education, and volunteer services. To be quite blunt, you aren't wasting your money. Syracuse University holds a heavy name when it comes down to it and we SU-ers know it. Although you should feel fiscally fit with the univeristy of your choice, don't let that force you to compromise when your gut says otherwise.

Am enjoying being here

I love Syracuse, there isn't enough words to express why. But to put it simply: volunteer opportunities. SU has over 100 student organizations and offers several ways to volunteer your time. Whether you want to volunteer at the local hospital or just hang out with kids after school. SU has it. Currently, I'm volunteering for two different organizations, one that involves helping children adapt to a new cultural landscape and the other that empowers young women.

Am learning a lot

I am constantly learning. And, I don't mean just in the classroom. I am constantly stimulated by my fellow peers and they sure do keep me on my toes. However, my professors are the best. Many of them are working professionals and are able to give you real life, realistic outlooks and views. Their knowledge is impeccable and they only increase my love for the Orange.

Elizabeth from Worcester, MA

During your first semester on campus it is sometimes hard to adjust because the transition is like nothing before, but one thing not to forget is to manage your time and manage it well.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is very reasonable with financial aid and scholarships, but it does cost $50,000. So doing any other external scholarships are helpful to relieve the pain of how expensive it really is.

Am enjoying being here

I live in a learning community here and I have met many people that are extremely nice. I have also met people in my classes that are just as enthusiastic for learning as I am. I enjoy the atmosphere and the spirit on campus. There is always something to do on campus no matter where you go.

Am learning a lot

I feel that only being here for one semester I have learned a great deal of material that is related to my major and everything I am learning from now on will build upon what I have already learned. Being in the College of Arts and Sciences I have to take many classes that are not related to my major, but there are so many to choose from that all seem very interesting.

Susan from Federal Way, WA

Outgoing (not an always stay in the room type of person), relaxed (go-with-the-flow types), and hopefully you like cold weather.

Tips for prospective students

Because it is a liberal arts college, Syracuse really likes well rounded students. Although keeping your grades up is very important, it means nothing if you didn't engage in your community. So go play a sport, join a few clubs, and volunteer. Do things that set you apart from the thousands of students that apply.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is extremely expensive. After fees, tuition, and books, it totals to about $55,000 a year. Since I don't get financial aid and only have a few scholarships, I feel it a lot more than the average student. Although the school is amazing and has a lot of free resources and activities for the students, I feel like some of the money sucking activities could be eliminated.

Am enjoying being here

There's always someone at this school that you will get along with swimmingly. Since the population is so dense and diverse, there are a multitude of people that will be compatible with you. On my floor and each of my classes, there is at least 5 people I've formed close relationships with.

Am learning a lot

I was an International Baccalaureate student in high school, so the course load is extremely easy at the moment. However, I really enjoy that about Syracuse. If you're coming here with the intention to truly learn, the first semester will help you get settled, gain great study habits, and boost your self esteem when you see your grades skyrocket.

Charmaine from Waldorf, MD

02/02/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you're a student that likes to work hard and play hard, then Syracuse is right for you. The professors and your peers will help with the work load, so its not as hard as you might think. And if you need to take a break from studying, no problem, there is always something going on campus to help relieve the stress, like Free Massage Monday at the Marshall Street Mall!

Tips for prospective students

Emerse yourself in the campus life. The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it, and Syracuse has A LOT to offer. There are hundreds of activites to do, groups to join, and places to just hang out. Also, dont worry about knowing what to major in because the counselors here and the other students will gladly give you a hand in figuring out what would work best for you.

Bang for the buck

The school is rather expensive, however financial aid is great. They dont hesitate to help you out as much as possible. You can call them during the week, check your financial profile online, or visit the financial aid office on campus. They also have offices in other major cities, for instance, I am originally from DC and they have an office downtown that I can visit.

Am enjoying being here

My goodness the campus is absolutely beautiful and the people are amazing. Everyone is so happy to be an orangeman! This school has the best school spirit. People are friendly, inviting, and so helpful.

Am learning a lot

The classes are small compared to how many students go here and the professors are always available to talk after class or during their office hours. So far I havent meet a professor or TA that I dont like.

Syracuse Junior

Driven, adventurous, multi-taskers, those who want to learn and have fun at the same time!

Tips for prospective students

DON'T assume that you won't get in, and please don't take one look at the winter weather forecast and decide not to apply! Definitely visit the campus- the buildings are gorgeous, and you can gain a lot from college visits about the feel of a campus. Trust your instincts!

Bang for the buck

The education is great. The experience is great. The opportunities are fabulous. The price... well, the school is definitely pricey. Applying for financial aid and scholarships definitely helps to take some of the burden away, as well as merit-based and need-based aid from the school. You get a great result for the money, but it can be difficult, and understandably so, if you don't think out a financial plan carefully.

Am enjoying being here

Despite the cold winters, the university is great! There are so many different types of people, and the numerous differences keep things interesting and fresh. There are tons of service-based, academic-based, greek etc. organizations that there is definitely something for everyone- and even if you don't go for those things, it's still a great and comfortable place to be.

Am learning a lot

Syracuse truly has so many different programs, with great professors, opportunities, and contacts. I've learned so much more in various fields than I even expected to, and also enjoy most of my classes! You definitely get a great education, and you have the opportunity to combine programs etc. in order to be well-rounded.

Janet from Flushing, NY

11/07/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Interested in Greek Life, half the school is Greek so if you wanna have a Greek experience WITHOUT going to a southern school. Cuse is for you Sports Fans: Two Words: Carrier Dome Communications/Architecture: One of the best schools in the nation for these majors Winter freaks: See above about the weather. That said...I don't really fit into any of those categories, with an exception to communication so you really have to see for yourself whether or not you like it. Don't be fooled by that week of great weather though...SYRACUSE IS COLD!

Tips for prospective students

EXPLORE. Honestly, staying on campus is cool, but you have to venture out if you don't want to die from boredom. Marshall Street: There are a couple of cute boutiques that provide cute things (mostly catered to sorority girls), Bleu Monkey for great sushi and dates! Mok Hwa for Korean food.... Armory Square: Lots of small stores, but great restaurants like Sakana Ya, Empire, Blue Tusk, Lemon Grass. Check out the Warehouse for their burgers (and you can use you meal cards) Erie and Westcott: ALTO CINCO for mexican! Syracuse seems boring at first, but make new friends and try to see what the city has to offer!

Bang for the buck

Tuition is ridiculous, even for a private school. And with it rising a thousand dollars every year, its amazing that I am able to afford it. However, Syracuse did offer me the most aid out of all the schools I applied to so I have to give some credit. It cost me the same to go to Syracuse as it did to go to state schools. While I think the quality of schooling is not worth the 52,000 tuition, I do believe it is a lot better then going a state school.

Am enjoying being here

Okay, weather in Syracuse SUCKS. And being a sun worshiper, I dread the winter months (which is 75 percent of the school year). Despite the ridiculous weather and lack of sunshine, I love the campus. It is close knit...but big enough to expand out if you want to. The city might not be as...cosmopolitan as you would like it to be, but as long as you have an open mind, there are a lot of great hidden treasures on campus and off.

Am learning a lot

Like everything in life, Syracuse has a abundance of great teachers...and some not so good. A lot of the teachers here definitely care about you and will be willing to help if you reach out to them. It's college so no one will babysit you through life. Introduce yourself to the teacher so they can get a face to a name, and I bet you'll have a better chance at getting an A then half the class. That being said, the variety of class in Syracuse is amazing. You will learn a lot as long as you work for it.

Andre Sadler from Englewood, NJ

12/30/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

It is great for a student who likes a big school but not enormously big. It is around 12,000 students. A student who loves to meet people from new backgrounds and areas. Also a for a student who doesn't mind the cold! The winters can be pretty bad but it all goes with the Syracuse experience.

Tips for prospective students

Tips are to start well out of the gate. Receive a good grade your first semester and keep it going. Do not get caught in this party phase and be happy because you are away from home. I saw many people i know have this happen to them and junior year they are not here. College is a place where you have freedom but do not get out of control with the freedom, Stay grounded and listen to the advise your parents give you growing up.

Bang for the buck

The school is pretty expensive around $50,000. I have financial aid and outside scholarships but as you see there are other ways to get funded for college if you are on this website now. I gave it 3 stars just because it ix more expensive then the other schools but the networking and opportunities it gives you are great.

Am enjoying being here

I love my time here whether from the athletic events to meeting people form all different sides of the country or the concerts we have. When i tell my friends about the different things going on at Syracuse they are amazed. I love my school and have a pride for it. The school offers you so may different resources and to a wealth of knowledge. Other then the winters Syracuse is the best place!

Am learning a lot

I am learning a lot at Syracuse. Many of the professors have actually worked in the field they are teaching you about recently so they have a knowledge of it. I am in the business school which is called Whitman. There are often career fairs and employers that come to the school to give you inside information on how to apply for jobs. Each class i have took i felt will be beneficial to me later on in life.

Catherine from North Sutton, NH

You can't turn a corner on campus without seeing a safety light box or a DPS officer (campus security officer).

Greek Life

Greek life is huge on campus, with 12 sororities and multiple fraternities as well. hundreds of students enter greek life each year and it is a great way to meet new friends and get involved in the community.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs and activities, including government and political groups, groups designated for your major, sports, and recreational groups.

Great for these types of students

Students who want to be part of a large community, who are willing to go outside of their comfort zone and be introduced to new things. Syracuse is so diverse that anyone can find their own niche within the school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The front steps of Carnegie Hall lead up to doors that are sealed shut-upper classmen wait on these steps the first few days of class to see which freshman decides to try to enter the building through the unusable doors.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is extremely expensive, but if you have the grades and the desire they give you a good financial aid package.

What to do for fun

visit armory square and all the restaurants that are a quick bus ride away. go ice skating in the rink on south campus. Attend football, basketball, and lacrosse games. There are many concerts throughout the year, as well as many dorm activities and campus activities.

Food and Dining

The food is good, and there are multiple dining halls to choose from, as well as many off-campus restaurants that are a quick walk away. The food does get old after a while, though, as they seem to serve many of their meals on a rotating basis.

Dorm Life

Branch out and open your mind to meeting new, unusual people. Your dorm floor is going to become your new family, so make the best of it and try to become friends with as many people on your floor as possible. it will only make your dorm life experience all the more better.

Academic Rigor

It seems to depend on the major you take, but specifically engineering and science majors tend to have a lot of work involved.

Tips for prospective students

Learn the bus system before you attempt to use it, then use the bus system to get yourself off campus and explore the city.

In three sentences

The Campus is basically a miniature city within Syracuse. There are always activities to attend and ways to get involved. The classes are tough, but very rewarding if you put in the effort.

there is something for everyone and if there isn't, then you can make it

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

best place to study: hidden rooms in bird library.

Bang for the buck

it's expensive but they give pretty nice financial aid packages. there are a lot of on campus job opportunities to make a good amount of money with minimal experience.

What to do for fun

frat parties, house parties, alternative weekend opportunities, going to the gym, intramural sports, sporting/art events, and a multitude of other amazing opportunities. there is never a dull night as su, you just have to be willing to look

Food and Dining

for a 4 rating go to ernie davis, everywhere else is pretty okay. if you really want to eat well you're going to have to come to marshall street where there is literally 2 blocks full of just restaurants.

Dorm Life

dorm living is a little less than par but the experience is definitely worth it. syracuse tries to house you in a diverse community of people in your same grade level so it makes for an easy social environment.

Academic Rigor

don't be overwhelmed by the rating. if you have a good studying ethic you'll do fine. if not, there are plenty of people you can meet that will help and there is also tutoring.

Tips for prospective students

apply, write a great letter, get a great recommendation letter, and have some experience under your belt. be prepared to work and prepared to step out of you comfort zone. oh, and bring a warm hat.

In three sentences

excellent school with great teaching staff, diverse learning environment, endless career opportunities, and various opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Akili from Fairburn, GA

-The campus proves to be very safe. It sits on a hill which sort of separates itself from the city of Syracuse. Very rarely do students get reports of something bad happening. That is very very rare.

Greek Life

-Wide variety of Fraternities and Sororities

Clubs and Activities

-There are so many clubs and activities to be apart of. If you play sports but do not want to play for the school there are intramural sports and club sports. Clubs range anywhere from Chess to Dance. If you are interested in anything, a student here has most likely created the club or organization for it.

What to do for fun

-There are usually events going on either every or every other weekend. There are a lot of things to do so you will never be bored! Although we like to go out and have fun, we do in fact get our work done. Don't get caught up in the social life!

Food and Dining

-For the first few months, food is great. There is a lot of variety in the dinning halls, however, the downside is how early dinning halls close (8:30 pm) in addition to their repetitiveness every week. There are other places to eat (i.e. Pizza Hut, The Varsity, Subway, etc.) off campus.

Dorm Life

-There are quite a few dorms on campus. For the first year it is great to meet the people in your dorm, eat in the dinning halls with them, go out on weekends with them, and even stay up all night together. Dorm life is something everyone should experience and is usually fun. The only downside to living in a dorm is community showers, sometimes the lack of privacy, and depending where your dorm is, the walk to and from classes.

Academic Rigor

-There are many many classes to choose from. You will most likely find a bunch of classes you will like and classes designated to your major. Do not come to Syracuse thinking you will just get by and take easy classes. There is no easy way out. Classes are challenging, however, they aren't impassable. While there are some classes easier than others, you should still take the time to study and be prepared for them.

Tips for prospective students

1. Come with an open mind! College is a completely different experience and should be looked at as such. 2. Don't be nervous or scared because we were all in the same position once 3.When in doubt....just ask! 4. Get involved early! There are several clubs and student organizations that will most likely have what you are interested in! 5. Meet upperclassmen: they can help! 6. Befriend your professors and TA's! It will pay off! 7. Be sure to go to class! No one will be around to tell you to do so, and when you don't your grade will be affected! 8. Get ready for the winter! It gets pretty cold around October until mid April or May 9. Be prepared to witness a lot of school spirit! 10. Most of all, enjoy your first year! You will love all of your new experiences here at Syracuse, so make the most of them!

Anonymous

04/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The campus safety here is great. They have blue lights located around each other that students can notify the Department of Safety services whenever they're in danger. DPS also provides people who drive around campus at night to help students go from one place to another.

Clubs and Activities

There are more than enough clubs on campus that any student could be a part of. Most of the clubs are active on campus so once in a while, we see activities around the school that are organized by certain clubs. The clubs on campus always create a friendly atmosphere.

What to do for fun

There is not much to do in or around the university. There are a couple of bars but students need to be of age. During the weekends or at nights, most students like to simply be with their friends and socialize.

Food and Dining

Dining halls are not located in every dorm but are located in about two to three minutes from each dorm. The food is vey repetitive in each dorm but they taste perfectly fine. Once it gets to lunch or dinner time however, the dining halls become crowded.

Dorm Life

Do not expect to live in luxurious dorms freshman year. The lottery process here at Syracuse is fair in the sense that the lottery numbers are completely random. There are numerous activities that each dorm does that students can participate in.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the major and the school students attend, affects and determines one's academic life. Just like any other university, Syracuse University offers courses that are academically challenging, but also simple and clear. The class size is relatively small so it is easy to receive help from professors.

Tips for prospective students

Students who wish to see an improvement in a lot of the schools here in Syracuse should definitely take action in implementing assistance. Syracuse University gives a college experience to each student in that a student is on his or her own and needs to be independent. This university is a place where students love taking action and the initiative to improve Syracuse's community life.

In three sentences

Syracuse University offers education and professors who really care about the students' education and how they manage to succeed. The students here belong to a community where people love to explore and reach out beyond their comfort zones. Syracuse University assures students of both an excellent academic and social experience.

Joseph from Syracuse, NY

10/12/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who wants to enjoy a small city with resources available for students. Its also good for students who likes cold weathers because its gets pretty cold. Oh and students who like to meet different people from diverse backgrounds.

Bang for the buck

Even-though the school cost a lot, they a provide a lot of financial aid for students not only with financial needs but everything. They try to make college affordable, they have different varieties of scholarships available to incoming freshmen.

Am enjoying being here

Yes! i am so happy that i chose to attend this school, everything is available to you. The school is great, you meet great people and even get a chance to meet famous people.

Am learning a lot

I learned a lot int he first day in classes. The material we were covering were so informative and in dense which were manageable to consume.

Estefany from Brooklyn, NY

10/25/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Syracuse University is great for people who are looking for the most diverse campuses in the country, who love snow and very cold weather, love going up and down hills and challenges in life! SU offers a lot of things that most people have never been exposed to in high school, like diversity and the chance to meet people from all around the world!

Tips for prospective students

My tip would be that if when you are offered the opportunity to attend Summerstart- a summer program for entering freshmen where they take classes and earn a maximum of 7-9 credits- DO IT! You will get the chance to meet other entering freshmen, explore the campus and become familiar with it, become familiar with college setting and enjoy the sunny weather before it gets cold! So why not take this opportunity??

Am enjoying being here

The campus is beautiful, even when it's snowing! There are always tons of things to do, whether it is taking the downtown bus to Carousel Mall, going to Marshal street and getting something to eat or attending a basketball or football game with the other 34,000 people! Student life is one of the most important things colleges have to offer. It's never a dull moment on the weekends!

Am learning a lot

I love my home college, College of Human Ecology, I'm a sophomore and majoring in Health and Wellness. The faculty is really friendly and since the college is so small, the professors know you by name and almost every one knows each other!

Rebecca from NJ

09/07/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The Department of Public Safety(DPS) is everywhere and they are simply there to help not to punish by any means. There are also blue lights that you can press for an emergency at any time of day and someone will be there in seconds. You can see at least one blue light anywhere you stand on campus.

Greek Life

There are so many Fraternities and Sororities. If you are interested, you can definitely find the right one for you.

Clubs and Activities

If we don't have it, which we probably do, you can make it. Some of the clubs are really competitive to the point where people have to apply to get in a community service club but if you wind up becoming apart of something, it is a great experience.

Great for these types of students

Anyone and everyone. 'Cuse is so big that anyone can find their place even without looking too hard.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Syracuse is unfortunately a Pepsi Campus but under Hedrick's Chapel there is a little shop called People's Place which is student run and sells extremely cheap Coke products and delicious coffee.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is extremely expensive(maybe costs a little more that it should) so be prepared to be in debt if you aren't rich but with your money comes better food then most places, a beautiful campus, and great networking for your future. Syracuse has so much to offer and is definitely worth your money.

What to do for fun

If you like shopping, the city of Syracuse is home to Destiny Mall, the sixth largest mall in the Nation. It is absolutely huge. Armory square is about two blocks consisting of cute restaurants if you want something to eat and on campus, even if you do not get involved, there is always something going on on the Quad.

Food and Dining

College food is not good anywhere but every dining hall here has a huge salad bar, fruit bar, and cereal counter. The dining halls are modern, easy to manuver, and overall have decent food. We do NOT have Sodexo food like most colleges which is a really good thing. I was nervous about coming here and being a vegetarian but there are a lot of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options that do not taste like rubber.

Dorm Life

I live in Sadler Hall and it is said that it is the worst hall on campus but I like my room a lot. It is carpeted with cinder block walls and has a huge built in closet/dresser. At any college, dorm rooms are what you make them so bring lots of posters, a string of christmas lights, or even a plant.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse is difficult. Coming from a small town I was shocked when I got here because I had to take 3 writing intensive courses right off the bat. However, it is not impossible. The teachers, TA's, and advisers are all here to help you so if you come here, take full advantage of every single resource. Bird library also has a wide variety of books for research.

Tips for prospective students

If you are even considering Syracuse a little, visit and I can guarantee you will fall in love with something about this amazing school. If you decide to attend, bring a fan because although it gets so cold you wish you chose to attend a school in Florida, it also gets hot the first month or so. Also, buy season tickets to football, basketball, or both because being a part of the student section, amiss The Orange, is something you cannot miss.

In three sentences

I was hesitant to attend at first because of the school's reputation but both the university and city of Syracuse have so much to offer. The campus is absolutely beautiful and the university values Scholarship in Action which is something I have come to love about it. Syracuse has so much school spirit and although it is a big school, you begin to find a small community within the larger one.

Preston from Victorville, CA

So expensive to attend Syracuse. It is like anything, if you want the name, you will have to pay for it.

What to do for fun

To be honest, I really have no time for fun. There are so many options when it comes to joining an organization or club. Great sports (except football), but nobody wants to be outside doing anything from November until April because all it does is snow. If you are an outdoors lover, Syracuse is not the place for you.

Food and Dining

Marshall street provides students with about 7 options when it comes to dining, which gets old very very quickly. If you are on a meal plan, you are paying way too much for poor quality food that will cause you stomach aches constantly.

Dorm Life

Communal showers, old buildings, no air conditioning (in most places), over priced, small spaces, required on campus living. There is honestly nothing good about living in dorms at Syracuse.

Academic Rigor

Of course, there are some courses that will not be very challenging. However, I can say that these past few years have been the most difficult years of my life. You will learn so much about yourself at Syracuse and your abilities will be tested no matter your field of study.

Tips for prospective students

I encourage any prospective students to be as well-rounded as possible in high school. Join clubs, be involved, do community service, and prove why you would actually make a difference.

In three sentences

Syracuse is the coldest place I have been. It has great faculty who are all very accomplished in their field. There are great sports, lots of clubs and diversity, and really good financial aid packages.

Claire from Loudonville, NY

10/17/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you love playing or watching sports this is the place for you! There are sports for every level of athlete, Division 1, club, and intermural. There are over 300 clubs here, so there's a way to get involved no matter what your interests are (we even have a quidditch team!). The university will even give you funds if you decide you want to create your own club! You must be willing to be proactive however, with a big university, you must go out and seek opportunities, you cannot do anything by sitting around and hoping things will come to you. Most importantly, it's for people who are positive and like to have FUN with great people!

Tips for prospective students

Visit schools first. I know I went to an open house at SU and it really helped me to decide that SU was where I wanted to be. You need to be on campus and really get the full experience before you decide. Most importantly, have fun! The college process seems kind of scary, but it can also be a lot of fun, it's a time full of opportunities, so don't cringe if you feel like the most frequently used answer you have is I don't know.

Bang for the buck

While Syracuse is very expensive, as I said before I cannot imagine myself anywhere else. I have had to make a few sacrifices such as limiting my study abroad to one semester and be a little more careful about what I spend, but all in all, with great classes, professors, friends, and opportunities to do whatever I want whether it be cheer on a division one team or take a class in Swahili (yes, they do offer that here!!!).

Am enjoying being here

I couldn't imagine being anywhere else! I have a great group of caring friends and the best roommate anyone could ask for, we've quickly become best friends! Our R.A.'s are really cool too, always open to talking whether it be about a problem we have or even if it is just asking about how our day is going. I am currently taking French, and my one R.A. is always willing to help me with the homework for that class.

Am learning a lot

There is not a single class I hate. They are challenging, but not impossible. I have a manageable workload. Professors are always open to helping students by email or through office hours. With the liberal arts core, I am able to take a wide variety of classes in a variety of topics so I am able to explore various interests I have, not just those related to my major.

Bri'Ana from Culver City, CA

Students who are used to little cities Students who don't mind the snow Student who want a great education

Tips for prospective students

Look at the academics offered, while maintaining an idea of what kind of place you want to live in. Try to visit if you can

Bang for the buck

The schools price is a little steep. The education you receive is very valuable but the price of the dorm and cafeteria food is a little crazy.

Am enjoying being here

If you are a city person like I am, you might not enjoy this school so much. It's in a city that is majority low class so we have a lot of thefts. There isn't much to do on campus and everything else is only reachable my bus which sometimes sucks.

Am learning a lot

Education at Syracuse is enjoyable. I've learned and retained a lot of information in my first semester.

sophomore from MA

03/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Be cautious walking around by yourself! many robberies off campus and a few assults have occured, mostly off campus. DPS is all around on campus, so they keep the immediate campus pretty safe. Just be careful in surrounding areas. the ghetto is literally a 3 minute walk from campus.

Greek Life

very big, I personally do not go to frats/sororities because they are a little too overwhelming and the students who attend them are obnoxious, but if that is your scene, go for it.

Clubs and Activities

There are many active clubs on campus who host so many different events. get active. you pay a lot for student activities, so why not just be involved? Sports are huge.

Great for these types of students

Very diverse so there isn't a mold to fit. I've seen earthy hippies, hipsters, jocks, bros, asian kids, jewish people, pagan people, christians, rich kids, poor kids, long boarders, bikers, woodsy kids, people who always have to dress nice, LGBT kids, nerds, artsy kids - any stereotype you know of, there will be some at SU. You will meet some really amazing students here with great qualities. On the other hand, there are a great deal of mean stuck up people but you dont have to worry about them because most of society and the school don't take them serious at all. Syracuse pretty much defines diversity with its student body because of how great all of the different programs are.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

go to one of those indents in the concrete that are built outside the dome and jump. a weird echo echoes back. everyone was seen doing that for the first month of school!

Bang for the buck

Holy hell, it's expensive but if you are not extremely rich, you get a good amount of aid. Hence all the rich kids you'll meet.

What to do for fun

Party party party. Attend sports games. Concerts all around. Bars everywhere. Good eats all around campus. Tea and coffee shops. Carousel mall, a few hookah bars located in Syracuse away from campus. Hang out with friends. Clubs host events a lot. TGIF sells free beer to students on some fridays.

Food and Dining

Overpriced but not as bad as other schools i've been to.

Dorm Life

go nuts. but don't get caught. 3 strikes your out policy. Not a dry campus.

Academic Rigor

Some majors are intense while others are not. Architecture students don't sleep.....art majors with studio do not either. Science majors are hard. Social science, psychology, philosophy, humanities, religion, etc majors are a little easier but if you want to be noticed and get into grad school then still do well! Most classes are huge though so beware.

Tips for prospective students

Be involved and be smart. There are many cliques here and can feel like high school all over again but make friends with the right crowd. The bros and biddies are annoying but you get used to their ignorance and they usually leave you alone if you go unnoticed easily.

Kaylah from Syracuse, NY

05/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The campus is surrounded by the city as well as neighborhoods but most people do not venture onto the campus. There is a good Department of Public Safety that will escort you wherever you need to go. There is a blue light system that can be used as an immediate call of Public Safety as well. And the dorms and living areas are very well guarded with plenty of monitored entry points.

Greek Life

We have a wide range of sororities and fraternities on campus both panhellenic and not. Chemistry fraternity, hispanic fraternity, marching band fraternity, honors fraternity. As well as all of the other normal ones.

Clubs and Activities

There is a team for any sport you could ever dream of, including Quidditch. Clubs for poetry, writing, food, singing, acting, anything you name it it is here.

Great for these types of students

Students who are willing to work hard but still want to enjoy their time here. It is not difficult to find something fun to do but you do have to be motivated to keep up with the work load.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Never walk across the ESF (SUNY environmental science and forestry school that shares a campus with SU) quad. ESF kids are total hippies and there is a rumor that they will tackle you if you walk on their grass. In order to get across the grass you must skip or jog or run or ANYTHING but walk. There are also some awesome local restaurants on Marshall Street like Funk n Waffles.

Bang for the buck

Although Syracuse is extremely expensive, I think it has been worth it. The dorms and food are really nice. My program has been absolutely amazing. My advisor is wonderful and all of my professors have been awesome. A wonderful environment is definitely provided for the price.

What to do for fun

Plenty of organizations to get involved in as well as shopping and restaurants on Marshall Street. You can easily access the Downtown area or the local mall by bus and there is almost always something going on somewhere on campus!

Food and Dining

The food is typical dining hall food, but it is definitely better than high school lunch. The dining halls here offer plenty of options that are staples throughout the day including many types of cereals, and salad fixins as well as a sandwich bar. There are also fun themed dinners and different entrees every night that are actually pretty good. The macaroni and cheese is insanely wonderful.

Dorm Life

I lived in Lawrinson my first year and I absolutely loved it. There are many communities offered in the dorms including academic and extra curricular interests as well as life style choices (substance free, LGBT) that make it easy to hang out with people who share your same interests. All of the dorms are perfectly equipped to help you get through the year although they may not be the nicest ever they are adequate.

Academic Rigor

Freshman year is one of the hardest because you will take classes that are meant to weed out those who are not motivated enough to get through them. They will be boring and have absolutely nothing to do with what you're actually there for but if you get through them you will definitely reap the benefits of more fun classes later on. The classes are very interesting and, although they are challenging, they will be manageable as long as you put effort into them.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in as many clubs and teams and activities as possible. They are all great ways to make friends and opportunities for extracurricular activities always look good on a resume. Finding a good group of friends in the beginning is definitely helpful with the overall transition process.

In three sentences

Overall an amazing first-year experience with plenty of people who are willing to help with adjustments. Safe, fun, and great environment to learn while still enjoying yourself. Pretty damn awesome.

Brendan from Brooklyn, NY

05/15/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There is always DPS (Department of Public Safety) around campus to make sure that everything is safe. DPS officers are very nice and are always willing to give you a ride home if you feel unsafe. When looking off-campus, it can be a little dangerous, but it is always advised to walk with others and be on the lookout for anything suspicious. The university has blue lights all around, that can be used to call officers when there is an emergency.

Greek Life

Greek life is big at Syracuse. Syracuse has more than 50 fraternities and sororities. The houses are not as big as other colleges, but there is still plenty of partying going on. Inside the houses offers amazing brothers and sisters that really treat each other as if they are truly siblings. There are plenty of philanthropy events and social events to be involved in when going Greek. Going Greek is a huge percentage of the University, whether it be a social fraternity/sorority, or a professional fraternity.

Clubs and Activities

Syracuse offers plenty of clubs and activities around campus. Each major has its own personal organizations, such as fraternities, singing clubs, tour guides, etc. There are plenty of sports clubs such as dancing, baseball, hockey, soccer, handball, water polo, basketball, etc. There is no way that you cannot be involved in Syracuse because of all the organizations that are offered.

Great for these types of students

No one in particular. Low-income to high-income students are welcome. Since Syracuse is an expensive school, there are plenty of high-income students, but Syracuse also offers plenty of aid to low-income students, as well as scholarships. Syracuse is also a great school for those interested in sports, or have a major in a school that is well-known for Syracuse.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Carrier Dome, which is the big stadium that Syracuse basketball, lacrosse, and football play has areas on the side, where if you stomp, will echo loudly. There is also the kissing bench, where if you kiss someone on that bench, you will be set to marry that person.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is a very expensive school, with overall cost of attendance at about $54,000. Although this is very expensive, you get the experience of attending a school that has a basketball team that is consistently in the top 5 in rankings, a brand name school, and a great atmosphere.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of things to do in Syracuse. When being involved in a lot of organizations, you will find yourself doing various things to stay involved, such as going out to the bar or having a night at the bowling alley. There are plenty of food specials and promotions such as $5 bowling for 2 hours. Syracuse is very close to Carousel Mall, which is becoming one of the biggest malls in America - looking to offer bowling, laser tag, and other retail clothing stores. Syracuse is also known for big eateries such as Dinosaur BBQ, Heid's hot dogs, and Mother's Cupboard, known for the 6 pound Fritatta challenge.

Food and Dining

I absolutely loved the dining halls! They offer buffet-style dining. All you have to do is let them swipe your card once (which will count as one meal) and you are able to eat all that you wish while in the dining hall. Freshmen are required to either choose a 14-meal plan or a 19-meal plan, but can reduce it to as low as a 5-meal plan sophomore year. The dining halls offer a huge variety of food; from salads, to a pasta bar, to chinese food, to holiday meals, such as turkey and stuffing for Thanksgiving.

Dorm Life

Syracuse has plenty of dorms for students. The rooms are about standard size - open doubles, split doubles for freshmen and can be rather roomy compared to other college dorms. You tend to meet plenty of other students through living in dorms from residence hall activities and floor meetings, which is a great way to adapt to college life. The only problem is that you are required to live in a dorm your first 2 years at the university. This isn't too much of a problem, given that the dorms are clean, have vending machines, laundry, and very nice Residence Directors.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse is a very competitive school that lead to rather rigorous studies. Syracuse has top-ranked schools; for example, top 10 in Newhouse School of Public Communications, Architecture, Drama; as well as well-known schools such as Whitman School of Management. I have never met professors as impressive as those offered at Syracuse. Professors may be tough at times, but you will learn much more than any other university.

Tips for prospective students

A huge tip when coming to Syracuse is to keep an open mind. There are many opportunities and many organizations that are offered. It is advised to take advantage and get involved early because future recruiters will love that, as well as maximizing the time you get to enjoy the organizations. Syracuse days are the best days of your lives, so be prepared to have a ton of fun!

In three sentences

Syracuse University is full of school spirit - from sports to greek life to organizations. Syracuse offers many opportunities with various classes offered and has many things to do around campus. There are plenty of things to do and many people to meet!

Adam from Hamburg, NY

05/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The DPS (department of Public Safety) provides ample security on every part of campus, no matter how desolate. they will pick you up and take you home after a night out and a few drinks, and they will police everything as if they are actual officer; this is quite annoying at times, but they are just doing their jobs!

Greek Life

With over thirty different fraternities and sororities, Syracuse is top notch when it comes to Greek life. There is also a good mixture of academic houses as well as social ones as well. It is always interesting to hear a story what the brothers or sisters force their prospective members to do, and the fraternities and sororities never disappoint on weekend nights when it comes to the parties, either. If you are one to attend these, be prepared to be in the same house as hundreds of students on any given Friday or Saturday!

Clubs and Activities

Like I said earlier, there are over twenty thousand students here at Syracuse. That being said, the opportunities for student involvement in university sponsored organizations is immense. even if you have an interest and there is not a club for that specific interest, you can make one with as little as two members. With the student ability to create these clubs, there is basically an organization covering everything imaginable.

Great for these types of students

-Extroverted, looking to meet new people -Ethnically diverse, Syracuse is one of the most ethnic in a country -Students looking for a big university, with many different kinds of people -Students who truly care about their academics and are looking to boat a highly-touted degree upon graduation -Fans of college basketball, as Syracuse consistently ranks in the top ten in the nation

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a bench that sits underneath a willow tree in front of a building on campus. It is said that if someone sits on that bench alone, then they will live the next ten years of their life alone; however, if they sit on that bench with a member of the opposite sex (or the sex that interests that person), then they will live the next ten years of their life with a great love life.

Bang for the buck

With a tuition upward of fifty thousand dollars per year, it is hard to imagine a university that would be worth that money. However, if there is one, then it is Syracuse University. The campus life is incredible, the academics are consistently ranked as one of the highest in the country, and the university offers everything imaginable in order to succeed and have a great college experience at the same time. Syracuse is the exact definition of what everyone talks about as a true College Experience.

What to do for fun

The heart and soul of Syracuse University is it's basketball team. Students camp outside for days upon days, just to gain seats to one of it's many games throughout the season. If sports is not for you, the city of Syracuse, which is a short ten-minute free bus ride from campus, boasts many restaurants, and an art district for students who enjoy beautiful scenery and cute little shops and stands. And for the avid party goer, there is rarely a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night that will disappoint.

Food and Dining

The dining halls at Syracuse are mediocre, at best. With greasy fried foods and questionable main dinner entrees on most nights, students will leave feeling disgusted from the foods they did eat, or just as hungry as before due to the lac of eating the poor food. However, the salad and fruit are always as fresh as can be, and the make your own sandwich bar offers many options and fresh ingredients as well. Those two areas are where I spent most of my time and appetite. You can find good food to eat at Syracuse, you just have to dig a little.

Dorm Life

Dorm life, at least for myself during my freshman year, was fantastic. With mostly co-ed floors in dorm rooms, students often live their daily lives among twenty or thirty people in close knit communities. The rooms are decent sized, the bathrooms are extremely nice (they are individual, not community!!), but the people I met outweigh all of the previously mentioned. Very comfortable and inviting living conditions.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse really wants it's students to perform to their highest potential. for that reason, the easy A in a class primarily for freshman at another institution will have you working your butt off just to maintain a C at Syracuse. The professors, for the most part, are mindful of their student's successes, and are available at all parts of the day or night for assistance. The classes here will force the student to exert their best academically, and if one performs to the best of their ability, and truly cares about their academics, they will be rewarded.

Tips for prospective students

-Manage time wisely! The Syracuse workload is not light by any stretch of the imagination. -Get involved! With many clubs, activities, and organizations around campus, there is truly something for everyone. -Meet new people! Syracuse University is one of the most ethnically diverse universities in the country, and I have met some of my best friends here after only attending for one year.

In three sentences

It is a great university for students looking to pursue a highly touted degree as well as at the same time becoming involved socially in the countless opportunities on campus. With about 20,000 students, Syracuse has thousands of extracurricular activities that will fit the niche of just about anyone. It is a great place to expand one's horizon socially, while still boasting many top-notch degree programs at one of the most highly respected academic institutions in the nation.

Syracuse has all types of students but most students are smart kids a lot of the times from NYC.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Dome stomping is probably the most unique tradition to SU it is when fans of the Orange stomp within little cut outs of the dome and it makes different sounds.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse as a University is definitely expensive but they do give large financial aid packages to families in need.

What to do for fun

Theres everything to do for fun, SU is a party school not going to lie so theres always parties, the city life, we have one of the largest malls not to far from campus

Food and Dining

Food is good for the first couple of weeks but at times there can be nothing to eat and other times it can be repetitive but food is decent in comparison to other colleges I visited.

Dorm Life

The dorms are okay but when your a sophomore you have more options of where to live that are still located on campus.

Academic Rigor

Classes can be tough especially the sciences but if you work hard anything is possible.

Tips for prospective students

To get the full feel of SU visiting is a necessary. The campus is actually beautiful and looks like it photographs. The opportunities are endless so theres no way you will not find your niche.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has been the best experience of my life thus far. The school has an amazing student population and so many academic fields to study. Syracuse University is a medium sized institution with 100s of opportunities for its students.

Samantha from Quincy, MA

Greek Life is pretty dominant at SU. Everywhere you go someone's got Greek swag. I'm not part of the Greek system, but if that's your kind of thing, then you can rest assured that you won't be alone.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is ridiculously expensive, but if you can find a way to afford it, this school will give you the best years of your life.

What to do for fun

This is one of the few drawbacks of SU. There isn't much to do off-campus. We do have a pretty big mall with a movie theater, but that's really about it. The football and basketball games are always fun, though, and you will never be without party options on weekends either. Come rain, sleet or snow there will be parties.

Food and Dining

People will complain about the dining hall food, but that's really just because they've been spoiled. The food is actually pretty good. There's always a variety of things to choose from and you will probably spend much of your first semester just eating in the dining hall. If you don't like the dining hall food, however, you can always head over to Kimmel or Schine, which are more like food courts (Dunkin Donuts, Taco Bell, Burger King, etc.), or you could walk down to Marshall Street and check out the restaurants there. Watch out for that Freshman 15, though! ;)

Dorm Life

As a freshman I lived in Flint Hall on Mount Olympus. (Yes, it is actually called that, and for good reason. You have to climb over 100 steps to get up there). I didn't get to be particularly close with anyone on my floor, but I think I'm really the exception. Most people tend to become good friends with their floormates.

Academic Rigor

The work really varies depending on your major. As an English major, I'm fairly sure I have it easier than, say, the engineering students. That is not to say, however, that it is not challenging. As with any good school, you have to be willing to do the work if you want to get good grades.

In three sentences

SU is a great school. Even though it's a big campus, the community is very close and the faculty is brilliant. The weather might take some getting used to (depending on where you're from), but at the end of the day, you won't find a student body more in love with their school.

Caroline from New York, NY

06/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

SU has it's own campus security that patrols the campus at all times. There is a blue light system across the campus in which you can press a blue light button whenever you feel unsafe and security will arrive to that location within minutes. Even if you don't want to walk home alone at night, you can call for an escort or be given a ride home by security.

Greek Life

Although the actual percentage of students involved in Greek life may not seem high number wise, Greek life is huge at SU. There are so many social sororities and fraternities as well as service and academic fraternities. When walking across campus, the presence of Greek life is easily seen by the many sweatshirts with Greek letters being worn by students at all times.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club or organization for practically every interest. From student government to sports clubs to academic clubs, there's a plethora of clubs for students to choose from. It's also fairly easy to start your own club which can be funded by the school.

Great for these types of students

SU is great for students looking to become involved in public communications, journalism, architecture and public affairs. The school is also great for students that love sports and are devoted basketball and lacrosse fans.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a bench located by the oldest building on campus that is called the kissing bench. Tradition has it that when two students kiss while sitting on the bench, they will end up getting married. It's a very cute tradition on campus.

Bang for the buck

SU is definitely a pricey school but it's well worth the money. The opportunities that will be provided in combination with the top notch programs almost guarantee success in life. The campus has a lot of school spirit and pride, there are many organizations to become involved in and the school is prestigious.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of recreational activities that students can participate in. On the weekends, there are a lot of parties at fraternities and off campus houses. Greek life is very strong at SU and many students participate in it for fun.

Food and Dining

The food in the dining halls is very mediocre. There is a good selection for vegans and vegetarians. There are a lot of options to choose from and there is a pizza bar in every dining hall. The dining halls in the first year student dorms tend to be a bit better than the other ones.

Dorm Life

The dorms at SU are definitely not amazing but they're not awful. Most of the dorms tend to be old but all the basic dorm essentials are provided. First year students tend to be placed in the dorms that are a bit secluded from campus but that allows a lot of friendships to be made.

Academic Rigor

This depends on the course of study or program you choose at SU but the classes are challenging but not impossible. Many of the programs at SU are top rated programs so a lot of work is required but the hard work will be worth it when you start your career. The majority of the professors are very willing to help students when you show initiative and are willing to work hard for your grades. The course work usually requires a lot of reading but that depends on the program you are in. If you attend the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, the majority of your course work will be project based and very interesting.

Tips for prospective students

The best tip is to get involved in clubs and activities as early as possible and make sure to take advantage of every opportunity provided. Also, it's important to get to know your professors by introducing yourself and attending office hours. Professors at SU can provide you with amazing opportunities so it's important to make yourself known in a good way. Also, it's important to make friends so attend a lot of sporting events and get to know as many people as possible.

In three sentences

Fun, energetic campus filled with lots of school pride and very ambitious students. The programs at SU are top rated and prepare students for life in the real world. Overall, the only negative thing about the school is the amount of snow in the winter.

Amiele from Beachwood, OH

03/01/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

We have DPS (Department of Public Safety) on campus 24/7 along with Syracuse Policemen who are very helpful. They make me feel very secure. Syracuse alerts you about anything that happens on campus or near campus and what they are doing about it. DPS monitors campus and dorm areas so although there are the dangerous areas, they are places to avoid if a person is alone and drunk. However, it is pretty safe.

Greek Life

There is a lot of Greek life at Syracuse however you don't have to be a part to enjoy the activities or be in it at all. There is a good mix and there is also Greek life devoted to academics and other values.

Clubs and Activities

There is always something to do at Syracuse University. I can really not find enough time to do all that I am interested n there i are so many sports, dance groups, volunteer groups, career related groups, winter sports, dance, arts, music, and almost everything you can think of. There are also events weekly that are alternative to parties so no one should feel forced to go out!

Great for these types of students

-Great Students (hard working,creative, friendly, accepting) -people who want a mid-sized private school -people who have a lot of different interests

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a bench on campus that if you sit on with a romantic interest is supposed to work out, but if you sit on alone is supposed to make you end up alone (superstitious, but the bench is obvious just don't sit there alone). There is a tradition of camping out at the Dome before the Syracuse Georgetown game which is always sold out.

Bang for the buck

This school is really expensive and very hard. It is only worth it if you make the effort to seek out all the opportunities you can! No one will do it for you!

What to do for fun

dance,ski, ice skate, go to the mall and go to wonder works, Marshall street to hang with friends,sports, party when you want and won't regret it, go to sports games, join a volunteer group, find a club that suits your interests, get to know your floor

Food and Dining

The food is easy to find and there are many dining halls. However, food is not like eating at home. You have to know that. You can set up a meal-plant that works for you and vending machine swipes are included. There are also some close markets on campus and grocery stores very close by.

Dorm Life

The dorms are pretty nice, they get cleaned (you have to clean your room of course). They aren't hotels, but they are a great way to meet people and are all pretty different. There are also things to do within a dorm and floors get close!

Academic Rigor

Syracuse University gives you a good education and is difficult. Don't go if you want to party and just have fun unless you also really care about learning.

Tips for prospective students

-Try to write an essay that really encompasses your personality -visit the school before choosing it -if you are worried it is too hard shadow somebody first -talk to people, faculty and students before deciding

In three sentences

Syracuse is a rigorous school that provides high quality education and opportunities if you look out for them. It is a University that expects a lot so you have to work hard to get good grades and find internships/jobs, but it is worth it. You get in what you put in

EVERYONE! It is the little big school. A large, tight-knit community with something for everybody.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is huge school pride from both the school, the city and the surrounding cities! And there is a kissing bench as well, those who kiss there will marry *awwwwww*

Bang for the buck

I got the most amazing financial aid package, and I am so thankful!

What to do for fun

It's a great city, wonderful school pride, sports games, music and arts events, concerts, fraternities galore. And Destiny USA (one of the largest malls in America!)

Food and Dining

Very wide selections of food in the dining hall (and its clean) with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Dorm Life

The dorms are not the biggest, but then again whose are! They work to make sure you and your roommate are comfortable, yet you have new experiences. Also look into the Learning Communities. The dorms are co-ed by floor and room depending on the building.

Academic Rigor

I haven't attended a class yet, but it's college. What school is not rigorous? It is all on the student and how they prepare themselves, this differs for everyone, I'm sure

Tips for prospective students

Visit, visit, visit! And keep in touch with an admissions officer. The school does not require an interview (depending on your school of choice) but do one anyways. Show them just how serious and dedicated you are about going to 'Cuse.

Alexandra from Concord, NH

05/14/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The Department of Public Safety at Syracuse University has just recently teamed up with the Syracuse Police to protect the students even more. There are services available for students who feel unsafe and there are always officers around during the day and night.

Greek Life

The greek life is amazing. If you are interested, rush is a great experience for both girls and guys even if you choose not to pledge. There are 20+ fraternities and 11 sororities as of May 2013. Being in a sorority is a great way to get to know people, to do volunteer services and to get connected.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs available at Syracuse University. The school does a great job with diverse opportunities so practically anything you are interested in, there is probably a club out there for you to join.

Great for these types of students

Students who enjoy eating/dining out should spend some time on Marshall Street. There are many food places as well as small shops in the area.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Spending time on the Quad is a must when the weather is nice. Many people play games, converse, tan and do homework here.

Bang for the buck

There are coupon booklets given out at the beginning of each semester that have great deals in them for the surrounding stores/restaurants in the area.

What to do for fun

Being in a sorority or a fraternity is definitely a great option if that's what you're interested in. The night life in Syracuse is also good. There are a few bars on campus if you are 21+, otherwise there are house parties and other events that take place on the weekends. The

Food and Dining

The food offered at the dining halls isn't great but there are a lot of options. There is always Kosher food available as well as vegan and vegetarian. There is always fresh fruit and vegetables. There is also Sbarro, Dunkin Donuts and some other places on campus that take your SuperFood card depending on which meal plan you have.

Dorm Life

The dorms are excellent. Syracuse does a great job of matching roommates as well as the learning communities offered. The students on each floor establish a great bonds of friendship by the end of the first semester. Depending on which dorm you live in, some buildings are new and renovated as others are still on the waiting list to be transformed from the 70's to modern dorm living.

Academic Rigor

Although I cannot speak for every other college at Syracuse University, I know first-hand that the College of Arts & Sciences is vigorous and challenging. The Communications program is also very intense, provided that it is the number one program in America. All design-related majors are engaged as well.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for as many scholarships, grants, promotions, etc. as you can before you attend school. You'll be surprised how expensive college life is! Stay connected with your advisors, friends and family for support during the new chapter in your life. It's important to ask for help when you need it, Syracuse is a big campus with a lot to offer! If you do attend, try to make friends right off the bat with the kids on your floor. They will become your friends and your family!

In three sentences

There is always something to do at Syracuse. The people are friendly and there is always help available academically/miscellaneously. The social scene is also very popular.

Jonathan from Miami, FL

12/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

On South Campus we have an Ice Skating rink. We also have several gyms on campus and basketball courts. Marshall St is a great place to hang out, and also, did I mention that Syracuse is one of the top party schools in the nation?

Food and Dining

You will never be too far from a dining hall if you ever need to grab a takeout box between classes, or grab something warm during the winter.

Dorm Life

RAs are down to earth individuals and you should feel free to approach them should you have any questions or issues. Many dorms on campus are split doubles which are great for getting to know your roommate as well as having privacy when you need it. A lot of the dorms have been renovated recently where bathrooms are concerned.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse University is top notch in all of their programs and they will get you out of your comfort zone and expand your knowledge vastly. I am privileged to be a part of one of the most prestigious and oldest architecture programs in the nation here at Syracuse where they constantly rank in the top 10 each year. Many other popular majors are ranked highly such as the Communications program which is ranked #1 in the nation currently.

Tips for prospective students

If you are accepted, their Summer Start program is great for getting to know campus and making new friends before the Fall semester even starts. Take advantage of it.

In three sentences

The students here are friendly and very outgoing. The staff is very helpful. You will find yourself and have a great time at Syracuse University!

Grad student from Syracuse, NY

Regal cinemas at the mall, go to get boboa tea, spend quality time with friends, attend church activities

Food and Dining

There are a number of fast food places, and the Destiny mall which is not too far away, has a plethora of great restaurants. I rated food and dining 2 stars because I'm refraining from eating out.

Dorm Life

I live off campus so I cannot say.

Academic Rigor

The work in my graduate program is demanding but rewarding, and thought provoking. I'm confident i'm receiving an exceptional education.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard, and if SU or any school is where you wish to be go after it wholeheartedly. Take time to research the programs to make sure the program's focus and requirements are in alignment with your personal goals.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is an amazing school, rich in resources and support, and caring advisers and professors in the school of education. The school spirit for basketball is high, and its at times intriguing to see the entire city come alive during game nights.

Qiong from Brooklyn, NY

02/23/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

DPS is literally everywhere. You have to save DPS's phone number when you first enter, if you have any problems or don't want to walk up the mountain at 2am after studying in Bird, you can call and tell them to give you a ride if you think it's dangerous. It can get pretty dangerous at the outskirts of the university.

Greek Life

We have A LOT of Greek Life on campus, practically all my friends are in Greek except for four or five. They tend to make you feel like you're in a family, and throw tons of party and is, I think, expensive.

What to do for fun

There aren't much to do for fun, you can go downtown and explore, not much there. You can go to the mall, the mall is expanding so there are so much more fun activities and restaurants there now.

Food and Dining

The food isn't all that bad in my opinion, considering I ate like a pig my first semester and gained 20 pounds. But the food tends to repeat a lot in the dinning hall. There are also many other options like food courts and grubhub and Marshal Street and Marshal Mall.

Dorm Life

It could be noisy at times, but once it gets pass a certain time it's okay. Don't stay at the room all the time, go to the lounge, fool around with your dorm-mates.

Academic Rigor

The professors in Whitman really care about how you do in the class. If you go to the professor after class, they will explain to you what is going on in the class and answer any questions you have. If you have a problem with your grade you can always go talk to your professors. A lot of the professors teach real life lessons.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved as much as you can, go to Orange After Dark events, take advantage of them, join clubs. There are so many clubs on campus. Take advantage of career service, they help with a lot of professional advice. Go to events with recruiters.

In three sentences

Professors are very loving and honestly care about how you do in the class in Whitman. Everyone is very friendly. There are so many activities and events I participate in.

Elissa from Albany, NY

Campus is pretty safe but every now and then we get an email about somebody being jumped. Usually around off campus housing though.

Greek Life

I joined a sorority and it was one of the best decisions I made. I made so many friends that I wouldn't have met otherwise. It is a great opportunity to get involved and help out the community through events that the chapters hold.

Clubs and Activities

Greek life is big on campus, although if you don't get involved you wont feel left out or out of place.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is a very expensive school. For the amount tuition is some things could be a little nicer.

What to do for fun

There are so many things to do. You can attend sports events, go hang out in the quad, join clubs, and go to events.

Food and Dining

The food isn't the best, but its not bad.

Dorm Life

I actually don't mind dorm life. I live in Lawrinson Hall which is a beautiful building with nice rooms and single bathrooms.

Academic Rigor

I am a business major. I came into the school with credits so I was placed in upper level classes. The work was not easy but I got through it.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved as much as you can. Even though joining clubs might be scary at first, I regret not getting more involved more the first semester of freshmen year.

In three sentences

The best school for me. They have great academics, great ways to get involved, and great activities on campus. There is no way anybody could get bored.

Fatima from Staten Island, NY & Richmond, VA

05/30/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

DPS, the department of public safety, does their best. Although, there are some people who run into trouble with the local people. I think it is safe to say that most of the unfortunate events happen at night, but it is usually the case anywhere. Overall, the campus is safe. It is quite rare that something major and horrible happens.

Greek Life

Greek life is absolutely everything. It is difficult to put it in words right now. I am not in Greek life, but I love taking part in their events. Obviously, they throw the best parties and have the most fun social gatherings, But they also have an integral push academic awareness and advancement. By attending Greek-sponsored events, I have had the pleasure of meeting Anderson Cooper, Nia Long, Common, KRS-One, Shawn and Marlon Wayans, and several trendy hip-hop artists. Also, despite the cliches, most of the Greek guys are really sweet and approachable. Most of the time, they freely approach the event attendees and strike up mutual, cordial conversion with no obvious attempt to sweep you off your feet or try to hit on you. The conversation is purely sincere. I enjoy it.

Clubs and Activities

There is practically a club for everything, and (as you've probably heard before) if there isn't a club out there that interests you, you can start it.

Great for these types of students

SU is great for all types of students: introverts, extroverts, loud-mouths, thinkers-before-speakers, gingers, and people who eat ice cream and pickles. Seriously, anyone could fit in. I never visited Syracuse before attending, and when I got there, I got acclimated quite well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

SU students love all the fests we have. Mayfest is epic.

Bang for the buck

Jimmy Johns.

What to do for fun

Destiny USA, the 5th largest mall in America.

Food and Dining

Eh. Syracuse is food desert for college students. The meals and ordering out gets severely competitive.

Dorm Life

One word: Awesome.

Academic Rigor

I don't think I've been challenged to hard yet. There were some things I didn't have the interest to do, but I still had to do it.

Tips for prospective students

When moving-in in August, bring a standard size fan. The dorms are not air-conditioned and the sun is working overtime to compensate for the long vay-cay starting in late October, early November. When preparing to trek through piles of slippery, icy snow, invest in a sturdy, reliable, thermo-lite pair of snow boots. Those boots will be as important as your laptop. Please buy some.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has a very distinct atmosphere: it is very inviting, yet allows you to feel free in your individuality. Twenty inches of snow is common so snow days are basically non-existent; in order words, don't expect classes to be cancelled during the wintery months of October through March. SU will more than likely have this pull on you that will make you miss it when it is time to vacate for the breaks.

Ashanna from Staten Island, NY

05/31/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Campus is very safe. DPS is always patrolling around and if you are ever in a predicament where you feel unsafe, you can just call them to drive you back to your dorm. The area of Syracuse is a little sketchy so you wouldn't want to travel off campus alone.. especially at night.

Greek Life

Greek life is huge on campus. You can always find someone who's involved in Greek, however if it's not your style it's no big deal.

What to do for fun

I enjoy figure skating at Tennity Pavilion which is on campus! I also enjoy going to mall or just hanging out with friends. Cuse has some pretty wild parties and events that are very fun but if you're not about it you can opt out and just have a kick back movie night with friends.

Food and Dining

It's not the best food but it's not too bad. It's get redundant after a while but the food overall is decent.

Dorm Life

Some dorms are obviously better than others but they are pretty spacious and a great way to meet people.

Academic Rigor

As long as you stay on task and do what you're supposed to, class should be a piece of cake. Professors are very helpful when you need them. Take advantage of office hours!

Tips for prospective students

You must bleed orange! The school spirit here is insane but it's what brings us together and makes such a large school feel smaller as you bond over a common interest. But in all honesty the school is what you make of it.

In three sentences

Syracuse is a mid size school that offers a small school feel. I love how I can walk through campus and see familiar faces that I know from my dorm or from one of my classes. Yet the school is large enough that you meet new people on the regular.

Alyssa from Charlestown, NH

DPS is kind of iffy, but I've never had an issue here. I feel really safe.

Greek Life

Lots of great frats and sororities. Lots of Greek pride around campus. Parties are usually really fun.

Clubs and Activities

Huge selection. You will never run out of things to do. Especially if you play rugby.

Great for these types of students

SU is such a good school for all types of students. In particular, if you are outgoing, passionate, love sports, love to have fun, driven, motivated, and love food from Chipotle, come here. This is your school. Oh, and you have to love the color orange. It's everywhere! However, if you are the more reserved/artistic type, don't be scared off! There are so many opportunities for you, as well! As I mentioned before, SU is whatever you want to make of it!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

It's 5:47, AND GEORGETOWN STILL SUCKS.

Bang for the buck

A bit expensive, but worth every penny.

What to do for fun

There are tons of clubs and organizations to get involved with on campus. Sports events are a must (Insert a shameless plug for Women's Rugby here). There is lots of shopping and so many restaurants to try. Greek life is fantastic for those who are interested in that. There are always parties to go to if you look for them.

Food and Dining

Not horrible, not fantastic. There are lots of options for students with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. There are lots of options, but they tend to get repeated thoughout the year. They host themed dinners throughout the year, which are lots of fun. Chinese New Year and Mexican Fiesta night are my personal favorites.

Dorm Life

Again, it's totally what you make it. If you close yourself off in your room all day, you may not get the same experience as you would if you connected with your neighbors. The RAs are great about hosting fun events, especially during stressful times like Finals Week. From Zumba to movie nights, root beer pong to Pinterest parties, there is something for everyone!

Academic Rigor

Academics are truly what you make them. If you don't put the effort into a class, you obviously are not going to get much out of it. However, if you give your professors your attention, they really do have a lot to share. Ask questions; they will be more than happy to help you! There are so many cool classes to take on campus, and the Renee Crown University Honors Program is excellent. It may be a big school, but because I'm in the Honors Program, some of my classes only have 8 or 9 students in them.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved on campus, and don't be afraid to try new things! I joined the Women's Rugby Club within my first week on campus. I had never played rugby before and had no clue what I was doing, but I made lots of great friends and found a new passion! Don't be afraid to be yourself; that's your best bet for finding what you are truly passionate about!

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a gorgeous university with a variety of academic, athletic, and professional opportunities. The spirit on campus is undeniable; there's something here for everyone! Between fantastic academics, a beautiful campus, incredible athletics, and countless clubs and organizations to get involved in, how could you go wrong?!

Kevin from Woodside, NY

Can be better. There are many restaurants outside of campus you can get your food from

Dorm Life

The best

Academic Rigor

They are very strict with academics. Don't mess around in this school take it seriously. Teacher are always available to help you if you are having trouble so use every resource you can.

In three sentences

Syracuse has great classes and you can always test a bunch of classes out if you would like because the majors are very flexible. The environment around campus is always lively and in the spring and summer time there is great weather. If you need any help I am telling you there are so many resources.

Jen from Indianapolis, IN

The school provides a lot of campus events that are a lot of fun for good prices. There's also buses and you could also take a taxi to a lot of places around the city. And of course, the parties.

Food and Dining

The dorm food is good, but it gets old really quick. Thankfully there are a lot of cafes on and off campus to switch things up whenever you want.

Dorm Life

I love my dorm and the people on my floor are really cool. My dorms are really nice and I think the space is adequate. They are constantly doing renovations on dorms which is nice.

Academic Rigor

I haven't gotten far in academics yet since this is my first semester, but I definitely have had to put in work so far.

Tips for prospective students

I would say one very important thing is to go to the campus involvement fair if you can and find clubs that strike your interest. It's something that will get you excited and find people that like the same things that you do.

In three sentences

As a freshman, I've only been on campus for a month and I can honestly say I find myself calling it home already. Syracuse tries really hard to make you feel welcome and involved early. One thing I really like about the campus is how compact it is, so for someone as directionally challenged as me, it's still not hard at all to find your way around campus.

Joshua from Plymouth Meeting, PA

01/03/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

I have been fine. There have been a few reports of robberies this past semester, but most if not all have been off-campus. There are emergency blue-lights stationed around campus. From what I understand, the Department of Public Safety has been less active this year than in past school years. DPS provides escorts home if a student feels unsafe, however, they're not too quick to get to where the student is. But, as long as you don't go wandering off campus late at night, stick to well-lit areas, and just be smart in general, you'll be fine.

Greek Life

I'm not personally interested in Greek Life, but from what I have seen, it is a prominent presence on campus and there are plenty of options to those interested.

Clubs and Activities

There seems to be something for everyone! As a musician, I'm happy at how many musical ensembles there are for non-music majors to join, and they're all fantastic. The First Year Players is another opportunity that drew me to SU.

Great for these types of students

Extroverts. The campus community is inclusive and socially active. It wouldn't be a good fit for someone who wants to stay to themselves. Also, it is good for motivated students. It's too easy to fade into the large group of students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Ask anyone and they'll tell you to try Dome-stomping. Stand in between two of the big ridges that form the outside wall of the Carrier Dome and jump up and stomp on the ground. Marshall Street, which borders campus, has great places to eat. The Oakwood Cemetery is also a beautiful place to check out that borders campus.

Bang for the buck

SU is expensive, there's no doubt about that. But, I enrolled at SU knowing I would have loans to repay, and so far, I've been very happy at SU. The people are fantastic and the course are constantly teaching me new things. Going into a animation as a career, I find the staff try to provide an accurate picture of how the field will be when I leave. The opportunities to learn have been invaluable.

What to do for fun

SU has a fair amount of school-sponsored events happening on campus. For example, on the weekends the student union shows free movies. There are plenty of free student concerts to go to, and there are A Cappella group shows every few weeks. There are also things to do in the city: there is a downtown area with a handful of restaurants and shops, and it has a museum too. Most of the fun though, comes from having a group of friends, so getting involved in things and finding a social group is important.

Food and Dining

It could definitely be a lot worse! The food is pretty good, and a lot of options are given.

Dorm Life

I live on a floor specifically designated to have stricter no-drug/alcohol policies. Other than providing me a nice group of people to know because I don't party much myself, my floor is cleaner and more peaceful than others. I hear from friends that some of the dorms can have unwanted smells wafting through the halls, but in general, I haven't heard anything extraordinarily bad.

Academic Rigor

Throughout my first semester I was consistently challenged. I don't feel I was ever bored by my work, and I learned something new with almost every project I did.

Tips for prospective students

The University and college in general is what you make it! Throughout my entire college search I never had that legendary feeling of the perfect fit when I walked on campus. When I got there, I adapted by actively seizing opportunities and making a place for myself, and I am beyond happy. Also, I was given the best piece of advice by a professor at SU during my search: find the school that has the *people* who will make you the best you can be. Academic programs are comparable, but the people at each school will not be.

In three sentences

My first semester at SU was an extremely positive experience. Classes were challenging but I was able to jump right into my major right away, so it didn't feel like work. Socially, there seems to be a group for everyone.

Kelsey from Ledgewood, NJ

10/13/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

FUN FUN FUN, and don't mind working hard when necessary!

Bang for the buck

You definitely get your moneys worth in free t-shirts. But seriously, the campus is gorgeous and the teachers know what they're doing. The food is actually pretty good and the rooms are a lot bigger than most college dorms! Also, SU is sweet with financial aid.

Am enjoying being here

You meet lots of great people and will definitely have a good time, whether you party or not. There are plenty of clubs and a diverse group of students.

Am learning a lot

The teachers are all great and very clear with the material and their expectations. However, be prepared to work!

Simone from Staten Island, NY

Be sure that you are willing to put a lot of time and effort into your schoolwork. This is a very prestigious university.

Bang for the buck

This is a great school but it is VERY expensive.

Am learning a lot

Professors will go out of their way to help you succeed as long as you go out of your way to let them know that you need help. Even if you do not want to see your professor, there are available clinics, tutoring centers, etc.

Ariana from Haverstraw, NY

Honestly, Cuse is great for anyone and everyone. I have met people of all shapes and sizes, from all ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds and everyone fits in.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you bring plenty of weather gear. Being a New Yorker myself, I know that New York State is famous for having all of the seasons in one week, sometimes one day. I would definitely invest in really good rainboots and snowboots (you'll use both of them often) and a decent selection of jackets (including a good winter coat). Also, just come with an open mind and open eyes. College is great!

Bang for the buck

SU is a little pricey, but still a great school. Most of the dorms are really nice and the campus is beautiful. All of the buildings are of magnificent architectural structure and really give you a great college experience. The quad and all of the grass is great for relaxing (when you have the time!) or studying (that's more likely).

Am enjoying being here

SU is my perfect social fit. I love the freedom that college gives me. The campus is very well organized and I find things to be very centralized and only a short walk away from anywhere I would like to go. Also, the busing system is excellent. I think it's great that SU provides no cost busing for students.

Am learning a lot

The professors are so intelligent and some of the most talented musicians and educators I have ever met. So many of my professors inspire me to work harder to be the best that I can be so that I might someday be like them and impact my students the way they affect me.

Chelsey from Amsterdam, NY

I think that Syracuse University is great for any type of student because it has something for everyone!

Tips for prospective students

Rain Boots, umbrella, raincoat, snow boots, and a good winter jacket are a must. The weather in Syracuse is very unpredictable. The best thing is the be prepared for anything. Do not be nervous about meeting new people, they are just as scared as you. Also know that everyone at the campus is there to help you, not hurt you. They want you to succeed.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse University is worth everything. The campus is beautiful. Activities are always available. There are always people available to talk to about anything. They have a system put in where if there is any emergency, the university emails every student on their school email and also texts and calls everyone cell phone. With this in place, I feel safe on campus.

Am enjoying being here

I love being at Syracuse University. Standing on the quad in the middle of campus, my surroudings looks like all those college campuses that we all watch on television and movies. I feel at home there because no matter where I go on campus I am sure that I will see someone that I know. The people wherever you go are pleasant and personable.

Am learning a lot

I have learned so much while attending Syracuse University. Not only on academics but also how to live on my own. Being an Education major, my largest class was 100 people but it really didn't seem that big. Over time, you become acclimated to the people who are in your class. In my Calculus class, which I thought would be a huge class, ended up only being like 25-30 people. It was great because you got the know people in your class to form a study group and you also got to personally know your professor.

Ae from Rochester, NY

08/04/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

SU has a great party vibe, if you're into that sort of thing. But some of the heaviest partiers tend to do very well in school, my freshman year roommate would party multiple times a week and get a 4.0 in the extremely difficult Communications major (SU is the #1 communications school in the US) There's a lot to do even if you don't party. Join a club, do volunteer work, etc. Just be careful to keep an eye on your academics! SU might not be Ivy, but we take our education pretty seriously here!

Tips for prospective students

Utilize all the resources SU has the give you, because you're paying for them anyway. The Health Center sucks, but you can at least get yourself looked at for free (if your insurance covers it, of course). There are whitewater rafting, skiing, apple picking, etc packages offered by the school, there's countless clubs and organizations. Professors and TAs are always available, there's always someone to help you if you're stuck. Other random tips: Make study groups, they'll save your life! Go to the lesser known libraries to study during finals, Bird is always packed! As soon as you can, move off campus or lose the meal plan. They're way too expensive for the mediocre food. Petition for everything. You'd be surprised how much you can do, how many credits you can save just by petitioning.

Bang for the buck

SU is a nice place, but the tuition is high and rising each year. That's the case with every college worth going to nowadays, though I personally don't think that SU is worth over 50 grand a year for a Psychology major. I'm also a Chemical Engineering major, which is a small and underdeveloped program at SU; I feel like I'm paying too much for an education that I could get at a less expensive college. But that's what you get when you go to a private college!

Am enjoying being here

I love SU. It's a bit dreary in the winter months since there's mountains of snow, but SU offers a student skiing/snowboarding package to get your mind off the weather. There are millions of activities going on all the time and there's a niche for everyone--I just wish that there was less segregation (SU was rated as one of the most segregated campuses in the US). Though segregation is prevalent, it's just natural--there isn't blatant racism or anything like that, everyone just seems to gravitate towards their own group. But there are tons of clubs and groups so it's relatively easy to break out of that mold. Also, there are buses to Carousel mall--your center for food, shopping, movies. Buses to Armory Square take you to a quaint little area with bars, restaurants, cafes, a perfect place for a nice night on the town. There are always plenty of things to do at SU--you just need to go find them.

Am learning a lot

The selection of classes is huge and the classes themselves are pretty great, though each student's experience will be different depending on their majors and professors. If you're having trouble, there are a number of different places to go to get help--your professors, your TAs, the different learning centers (like the math clinic). You'll get out of each class the amount that you put into it.

Yon'e from Bronx, NY

People who like the cold. People who like things easily accessible. People who want to try things they've never tried before.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared because the winters here are no joke. Classes will NOT close even if there is 3 ft of snow on the ground. Interact with your roommate and the other people living on your floor and in your hall. These people may become your 'breakfast buddies' or part of your study group.

Bang for the buck

I pay at least 50 thousand a year to be here and the fees just kept racking up but I believe that it'll all be worth it in the end when I earn my degree.

Am enjoying being here

There are tons of activities to do on campus. From clubs to sports. Anything you could possibly be interested in is offered at some degree either on- or off-campus. I am enjoying the offers to join new organizations and to see what other things I can immerse myself in. Although at times living on a huge hill can't be daunting, it's worth it.

Am learning a lot

I didn't even take notes on the first day of classes because I was so engrossed in the discussions going on. Every one of my classes is so different from the last and it keeps me interested and wanting to return.

Unique from Milwaukee, WI

Even though the tuition is very large it is worth it. I know by how the professors show their affection when a student is doing an assignment.

Will enjoy being here

I go to New York a lot and I love it there. I have a family member that attends Syracuse and I visited her and she showed me all the fun and entertaining places and I liked them a lot.

Will learn a lot

I know that if I get accepted to Syracuse I will learn numerous of things. I noticed when I visited the campus that the professors help the students and make sure they understand what he/she is teaching.

Allison from Sodus Point, NY

10/18/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Am enjoying being here

I was worried that before I moved in that I wouldn't fit in. But now I know it's impossible not to find a niche. I live in a learning community and have made friends with other education majors and music students are so nice too.

Brittany from Yorktown Heights, NY

12/05/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

People who are not sure of what they want to major in because there are so many opportunities here in a wide variety of subjects. Also, people who don't mind being in big lecture type classes since Syracuse is a decently big school. Other than that, anyone who wants a college type feel to a campus would love Syracuse University.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you take into account feeling homesick. I didn't think I was going to be homesick at all until I got here. That is probably the biggest problem I've had since I've started college. Other than that, realize that changing from high school to college classes is very different and it takes a lot more time on your own to be able to do as well as you did in high school.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is really expensive at around $50,000 a year. This is a great and wonderful school, I just wish it wasn't so expensive.

Am enjoying being here

I really love this campus, it's beautiful and feels almost like a home away from home. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star rating is because I am four hours away from home, and I'm really homesick. So it gets a little annoying taking 5 hour train rides, etc. just to get home, but otherwise the dorms are pretty nice and I really like the campus.

Am learning a lot

Syracuse has a variety of classes to take and so far, I've been learning a lot in my classes. I have taken Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology classes and in each of them I've learned a lot. Also, if you're not doing well in a class, there is tutoring available which is a good way to help you learn.

Corinne from Summerville, SC

12/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Be a sponge. It's a hard school and you're going to go through a lot of ups and downs, but if you go in with the attitude that all the knowledge is helpful, you will never feel let down and the stress won't get to you as much. Avoid negative opinions and doubts. The professors and the programs know what they're doing.

Regina from Elmont, NY

12/29/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

-If you love winter you are made for this school. -Love the color orange you have to be here. -Love sports, you should be here. -If you enjoy a large student body, and to have fun then Syracuse is the place for you. -Wish to major in communications Syracuse has a great school for that (New House). -If your looking for the perfect college campus experience, with all of the things to get involved in, the quaint college town, the division I sports, club after club, party after party, fraternities/sororities, activities, concerts then its definitely the school you should go with.

Tips for prospective students

-Its a very large campus which means there are a lot of job opportunities but they do go fast. -Choose a club as early as possible. This way it is easy to make friends with interest similar to you want, you can get volunteer hours and quickly get involved. - It snows a lot and often, and if it isn't snowing its cold. Try to prepare yourself with the necessary equipment - Go to games--You may not like Football or Basketball or Lacrosse, and you may not even go to Syracuse, but there is nothing better than the live energy of a game. Its something every college student should experience if you have the chance.

Bang for the buck

While tuition is a lot but it is definitely worth it. Due to the fact that alumni are very supportive after a few years in Syracuse you will be able to get a job, a mentor, or even the letter you need. There are so many chances to meet people to build a resume, and just to get involved that it is worth every penny.

Am enjoying being here

The only down side to Syracuse is of course the weather. Everything else is amazing. The campus is beautiful the people are all friendly, and no one has school spirit like the Orange men. Before I went t the school I never met a person who didn't enjoy being there, and now I understand why there is always something to do on campus because of all of the clubs and organizations. Once football or basketball season starts there is always a game which is a great place to meet new people. There is no better way to enjoy your school or make new friends than to throw your arms around a person you just met and sing your school song.

Am learning a lot

There are so many different classes to choose from and as a student of the Whitman School of Business you are able to begin studying for your major from your first semester. This way you never scramble for classes and by the time you get to junior year you are ready for an internship or elective classes. It is also very easy to double major in different schools so you can graduate with a degree in marketing from communications, as well as a fashion degree.

Amy from Wilkes Barre, PA

04/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

DPS is available for late night rides/walks back to dorms, etc. The buildings have great security systems and I have never felt unsafe. BLue light systems are also set up on campus- if you feel unsafe and press the button nearest to where you are a DPS officer will find you in less than a minute.

Clubs and Activities

The school offers hundred of clubs, organizations, activities, etc. They span a very wide variety of interests. There is something for every student to be involved in.

Great for these types of students

Syracuse is great for any student. There is a great diversity here and the school is very welcoming. There are clubs and organizations for every race, religion, sexual orientation, etc.

Bang for the buck

While Syracuse is the most expensive school I applied to I feel like it is worth it. I am getting a great education and having the time of my life. If I could go back to April 2010 when I was making my decision again I wouldn't do anything differently.

What to do for fun

The school offers many different clubs and organizations to get involved in. Intramural and club sports are also an option. The social scene here is great and downtown Syracuse is only a short bus ride away.

Food and Dining

While it is not the same as home-cooked food the dining halls I have visited have been surprisingly good as far as college dining halls go. Many options are available daily and they also offer vegan and gluten-free options.

Dorm Life

I have had great experiences both years with my dorms. They are clean and spacious and the security makes me feel safe. RAs are available to talk or answer any questions you may have.

Academic Rigor

I feel challenged in my classes, but I never feel like the work load is too much for me to handle. I am learning more than I ever have before and I fins that my classes are interesting and fun. The professors and TAs are very helpful and knowledgable.

Tips for prospective students

When picking a school you want to find the place that feels right for you. Syracuse is a very welcoming school and is very safe. The school spirit and the atmosphere are very exciting and there are so many great opportunities.

In three sentences

Syracuse is a great school with an amazing sense of community. The school spirit and variety of opportunities attracted me to the school. I always feel safe and like I'm at my second home.

Kayla from Woonsocket, RI

DPS (Deparment of Public Safety) does an excellent job responding to emergancies and keeping the general atmosphere safe. There are options for any situation.

Greek Life

Either you love it or you hate it. The Greek life is HUGE on this campus, and there are always events going on within the fraternaties and sororities.

Clubs and Activities

There is seriously a club or activity for almost anything you can possibly think of. And if there is not, you can get people together and create one. It's always a great way to get involved.

Great for these types of students

Outgoing, energetic, and diverse people who are ready to experience new things. Also, students who love sports. One of the most amazing things are the sports here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Kissing Bench: if you kiss your significant other on the bench, you will marry them someday. It's been proven to be true and students do not take it lightly.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is WAY too expensive, but it will definitely provide you with good times and memories to last a lifetime.

What to do for fun

The Carousel Mall is always a good option if you can't find anything else to do. There are ALWAYS events going on around campus, pretty much every day. There are a ton of concerts and parties every weekend, and the quad is always an amazing place to hang out when it's nice out.

Food and Dining

Some dining halls are better than others, but there is always a wide variety of food for all preferences. Marshall Street is packed with a variety of food places suitable for any mood.

Dorm Life

Living in a dorm is one of the greatest experiences. You really become close and bond with your floor, and it is such a warming atmosphere to come home to at the end of the day. The people on your floor will become some of your best friends throughout college.

Academic Rigor

Classes are difficult, but the professors really do want you to succeed, and if you work hard, you won't be disappointed.

Tips for prospective students

It is important to manage your time wisely. Classes are difficult, but it isn't difficult if you put the work in. You get out of it what you put in. Make connections every opportunity you have.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is one of the most diverse universities in the Northeast. With professors who love to see you succeed and challenging classes, it is an excelent school for any career choice when trying to gain valuable experience. The atmosphere present on the campus on game days is one of the most exhilarating, energetic, and exciting feelings you will ever experience.

Chassity from New Orleans, LA

There a many activites and groups a student can join. Also, Syracuse provides every sport imaginable from cheerleading to quidditch.

Food and Dining

The dining hall offers a variety of foods seeing as everyone does not eat the same thing. There is vegan food and food for the carnivores. The food usually runs on a set schedule, so you'll know what is offered which day.

Dorm Life

The dorms are clean and there is a cleaning service that cleans the bathrooms daily. Syracuse offers apartments on South campus and singles, doubles and suites on main campus. The hardest thing to get used to is living with other people, and sharing the bathrooms.

Academic Rigor

The professors are very knowledgeable on what they teach, so they try to make sure you understand the concept on what they teach. Get used to having homework everyday, and being required to study for exams.

Tips for prospective students

Come with an open mind to meet people from all over the world. Be prepared to be away from home for a while. Be prepared to learn because there is no easy route.

In three sentences

Syracuse is a medium sized school with a lovely campus. The only downfall is that it is on top of a hill, meaning there are many steps and ramps. The school offers a wide range of majors, sports, and activities to get the student involved.

james from Mount Vernon, NY

Syracuse has many concerts and events, the University Union has laser tags in the student center and many other events.

Food and Dining

The dinning halls are filled with quality food, each dinning hall places themes in which the food connects to the theme.

Dorm Life

the dorms are amazing, they are spacious and clean, the staff are supportive and helpful. the dorm life, adds an extra excitement level to the school, each dorm has events and different things throughout the year to keep the students happy.

Academic Rigor

The work level of the institute is challenging, but it will help you in the long run it gets you ready for real world scenarios.

Tips for prospective students

Learn about all the resources the university has for you, because the university has a lot of different programs that can help any student excel.

In three sentences

Syracuse university is one of the top private institutions. The many high quality programs the school has makes it challenging yet fun. the social lifestyle of the students are filled with excitement and a large amount of resources to use.

SU student

05/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Cops and DPS (Department of Public Safety) are around campus all the time to make sure that the campus is safe. There is a blue light system strategically placed throughout the campus so if you need help someone will be there I believe within a minute. I generally feel safe while I am on campus.

Greek Life

There is greek life on campus and they show their pride on campus. There are obviously a lot of parties that happen there. They are mainly located on one street but there are a decent amount of students involved.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for almost anything. If you want to start a new club, there is always the opportunity to. There are too many clubs to list!

Great for these types of students

All different types of students are generally well fit for SU. The Newhouse school is great for journalism and tv/radio/film students (one of the top rated in the country). The Whitman school of Business is continually ranking higher for their programs. There are many other schools within SU as well that makes it hard not to find what you are looking for.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Lots of orange. Juice Jam and Block Party (fall and spring concerts).

Bang for the buck

It is very expensive for the school in general, but SU has a very generous financial aid program if you actually need it or deserve it.

What to do for fun

I am a part of the bowling club. I contribute to the CitrusTV station on campus.

Food and Dining

All dining centers are buffet style, but they do very little to change up the type of food available. The quality of the food changes every meal but different dining centers have better quality. My advice is to avoid Sadler dining hall if you have the chance!

Dorm Life

Quality definitely depends on where you live. The dorms overall are nicer than other campuses. The rooms are generally nice depending on the dorm that you live in. The resident advisors on your floor will help you get used to the school and help you make friends with the people around you!

Academic Rigor

There are easy classes and then there are some really hard classes. It also depends on the teacher that you decide to take the class with. Grading is much more difficult than in high school and the professors expect you to work much harder than you did in years prior to college.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to wear a lot of orange! It's okay to come in undecided because there are so many majors to choose from once you get there. There are so many things to get involved in so it is really easy to meet people and make friends!

In three sentences

It's a large campus with many different and diverse people. The atmosphere is very nice on campus. Sports are a huge deal on campus.

Michelle from Valley Stream, NY

05/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

When it is warm, the quad is the best place to be. There are always people playing frisbee, soccer, or just tanning and hanging out with friends. There are events to attend every week and sports to get involved in. There is also a huge variety of clubs to choose from.

Food and Dining

There are several dining halls on campus to choose from. There is a different dining hall by each resident hall which is convenient, if you do not want to travel, but there is always the option to eat at a different location. There are also many restaurants one block away from campus.

Dorm Life

Dorm life was always fun for me. You are surrounded by so many great people. As a freshman, it is a great way to meet new people.

Academic Rigor

Professors do not have an issue challenging their students to help grasp a topic or idea. You have to put effort in order to obtain an A which I like a lot. I would not feel accomplished if I knew that I got by without doing work to achieve an excellent grade.

Tips for prospective students

The key to being successful anywhere is time management. As a freshman, it can be difficult to adjust to a new environment and not having parents making sure you complete your work. Being on your own in college can be a liberating feeling, but it is vital that you stay on top of your work and reach out to all of the available resources when necessary.

In three sentences

I personally like the fact that it is such a large school, always allowing for the opportunity to interact with new people. When it comes to meeting with professors or teaching assistants, I have never had an issue with their availability. There is always something to get involved in on campus, whether it is a club or attending an event, I love that about the school.

Vivienne from Brooklyn, NY

DPS security is everywhere!!!!! They even take you home from parties if you dont feel like walking or are too scared.

Greek Life

Greek Life is very active on our campus

Clubs and Activities

The clubs at SU are really really good. They look really neat on your resume and you can apply alot of the skills you learn to jobs

Great for these types of students

Great for social and active students, who are good at managing different aspects of their life.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is Mayfest at the end of the semester, on halloween there is a cemetery near our campus that everyones dares each other to go into.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is on the costly side, freshman year tution was 54,000 and this year it went up to 55,000, make sure you can afford the school before coming.. talk to your parents!!!

What to do for fun

There are always lots of fun things to do, Syracuse understand that our campus is sort of secluded so they host eventso nthe weekends... weve taken trips to museums, we eve nhad our own haunted houses put up on these fair grounds and they bused us all the way out there. Lots of awesome concerts and parties theres always something to do.

Food and Dining

I think that food and dining at the University is very good compared to other schools that I have visited. We have Sbarros, Taco Berll, Haagen Dagzs, Burger King, Dunkin Donuts, Chinese Takeout and alot of university owned food that it really good.

Dorm Life

Dorms at Syracuse are on the fairly small side. The best dorm to livei n is probably Ernie Davis Hall. It is the newest and is fully equipped with its own gym and dinning hall facilites.

Academic Rigor

Academic rigor at Syracuse University is not the hardest but it is very challenging. You will spend many nights suffering from lack of sleep as with any other college but it is all very well worth it when your grades come in.

Tips for prospective students

Take full use of all of the student organizations, connections and opportunites that the university has to offer. Dont be afraid to become involved in alot of different things during your freshman year. The snow is very rigorous here, but its nothing that you wont get used to.. the first snow fall of the year is always the best because its so anticipated. Make sure to invest in a really warm coat.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has alot of networking connections available. It is a grerat combintion of work and social life. This school has so much to offer.

Student from Edison, NJ

Go to downtown to taste different restaurants! Go explore one of the biggest malls in New York, Carousel Mall! Go to parties! Play sports and exercise with your friends at the gym!

Food and Dining

Although there are few dining halls that people love (Ernie Davis & Shaw Hall), most of the other dining halls are not the best. Some are either very crowded and lack enough food for the students, or the variability of food is quite the same every day.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is amazing. All the Resident Advisors were selected based on their ability to make the dorm life safer, more interesting and memorable. Most of the dorms for freshmen are well equipped and close to the campus.

Academic Rigor

As stated above, it is important to actually study and review materials from class. It is also essential to attend lectures, as professors often test materials that were covered in lectures, not just their lecture notes posted online. If you put in time and effort in studying, then you will be able to do well.

Tips for prospective students

Syracuse University definitely awards those who endeavor to do well in school. If you have done well in high school by putting in effort, then you will be accustomed to what the school expects from the students.

In three sentences

Full of diversity. Full of valuable education. Full of amazing experiences.

Bradford from Bronx, NY

06/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Syracuse has an extremely active party scene, hundreds of clubs, a ski resort/snowboarding place nearby (for winter season, which is sometimes year round), a variety of shows, and a mall not too far away. It is not hard to have fun at 'Cuse!

Food and Dining

The meals are extremely repetitive in the dining halls and both the kimmel and schine food courts practically offer the same things everyday. It gets sickening after a while. One can also go to marshall street, but unfortunately they would have to use their hard earned money to buy their meals and not the provided SU cards superfood.

Dorm Life

Unfortunately, most of the Syracuse dorms are somewhat old and not renovated but there are a few new buildings that look absolutely amazing for upperclassmen (park point, university village and campus west). Most freshman have to live in dinky like motel rooms until their sophomore year where they will have their own kitchen and bathroom if they choose to move to south campus.

Academic Rigor

As an electrical engineer I can easily say Syracuse's academics in this facility is extremely rigorous. Why else would I have applied for the no GPA award? Engineers are constantly pushed to their limits, generally take more than 16 credits per semester and are required to do at least 10 hours of homework per week. I cannot identify with other majors well because I do not have their curriculum, but I do know that most of my friends do not have much chill time either.

Tips for prospective students

Join clubs and don't be afraid to introduce and meet random people on campus. The majority of people at Syracuse are extremely friendly and are genuinely interesting, intelligent characters so it's always nice to meet new people. One should also be aware that there are side steps to The Mount that make it much easier to get to than climbing the 216 steps to make it to the top!

In three sentences

Syracuse is one of the most entertaining campuses around, from magic shows to moster truck jams to DJ's such as kaskade and rappers such as drake, there is hardly ever a dull moment here. Syracuse takes pride in its basketball team and attending games in the carrier dome fills one with unmatched euphoria. Simply put it is a diverse and friendly campus where everyone can find a place to fit in.

Thayer from Syracuse, NY

06/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

For fun you can go to parties on comstock or at frat houses or on south campus. You can go to the mall. You can go to games at the Dome. Orange after dark also host alot of events for students like snow tubing, laser tag, and more. There are also concerts like Juice Jam and block party as well as events in schine

Food and Dining

The food and dining at SU is terrible. The only time there is good food is the first week when our parents are with you or whenever prospective students are visiting the school. Most of the fruits are old and dry. The bread is always expired and stale. The dining hall people leave food out for hours. Every week the dining halls have the same food to eat so after about 2 weeks or so you get tired of eating there

Dorm Life

The dorms at SU are terrible especially since the dorm fees are expensive. The best 2 dorms to live at are Lawrinson Hall and Ernie Davis Hall. Ernie Davis was completed in 2010 and is the newest dorm on campus. It is also the only dorm on campus that has air conditioning. Lawrinson Hall is the tallest dorm on campus. It has 20 floors and a pent house. The location of lawrinson is not that great but the building makes up for it because all of the floors and rooms are renovated with new carpets and new furniture. There is also a laundry room on each floor at both ernie davis and lawrinson unlike at any of the other dorms. The worst dorm on campus is delplain hall.

Academic Rigor

I think classes at SU are difficult based on the professors and based on what type of class it is. The older professor who have tenure tend to not teach as much and have harder classes. This is true for some but not for all. Most professors are nice and are willing to help you out if you go to their office hours weekly and get to know them. Some easy classes to take are ETS 107, ETS 153, ANT 121, ANT 111, CLS 105

Syracuse University is an okay university. The weather sucks most of the time because it is usually either snowing, extremely cold, or raining. Syracuse can be alot of fun if you take the time to participate in events and get to know people.

Philip from Brooklyn, NY

06/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

It is here and there is a lot of it. During rush week, you can meet a bunch of brothers/sisters from different fraternities/sororities but you don't necessarily have to join. Of course they would like you to but it all depends on how you feel about it. If you're too fond with the whole 'college-partying' scene, there are several different academic frats and sororities you can join. Be careful, if you decide to join in the spring semester and you've made friends in the Fall, try your best to make time for old friends and new brothers/sisters; pledging takes up A LOT of your time.

Clubs and Activities

There's so much Syracuse has to offer in terms of activities. The university tries so hard to get students involved, which makes sense because it takes a lot of money to run these clubs and activities. It might seem like a hassle to go through all the processes of registering and receiving emails but if you stay open minded and patient, you'll turn out fine.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you're a runner, you can go up to the mount and ask for where the graveyard is. Once you pass the tombstones, there is an out of this world route that looks eerie and very scenic at same time. This is only if you're not too scared or prefer not to run the same on campus route every time you decide to jog.

Bang for the buck

It's really expensive to go here. Keep your grades up and take advantage of any positive opportunity that comes your way. Your professors tell you that college is like a buffet of knowledge. You don't want to pay your bill without feeling like you're satisfied with the amount of things you've learned.

Food and Dining

Some days the dining halls have really good food and other days, it will be absolutely terrible. There are some good places to eat down on a main street called 'Marshall street': Starbucks, Cosmos Pizza, Chipotle, etc. All in all, if you do decide you want to go to Syracuse University, try your best to avoid eating at 'Ernie Davis Dining Hall'.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is really just what you make of it. If you click with your floor-mates, you'll be spending a lot of time with them. However, if you happen to be on an athletic team or in a club where you've made close friends, you'll be spending time with them. Your RA does have meetings once in a while to discuss certain issues and they try their best to get people on the floor to hang out together but it all really depends on your personal preferences.

Academic Rigor

How difficult the course load is at Syracuse University all depends on what major you are in and how well you manage your time. As an engineering student, I had to take a class that just told us ways to have a successful academic career. Ironically, the more time you have the more likely to fall short of your grades. You're more prone to distractions with that much more free time. I'm not too sure about other majors but as long as you keep yourself occupied and stay focused your GPA will follow.

Tips for prospective students

Be open minded and willing to try new things. It is very unpredictable how things may turn out. This does not mean to force yourself to like something you don't. Syracuse tries very hard to have students find their own niche by offering so many different kinds of events, clubs, etc.

Michelle from New York

The campus safety is excellent. The DPS department officers are really helpful and have your best interest at heart.

Greek Life

Greek life is pretty big on the Syracuse Campus. Rush Week is a blast and you can truly make friends for life.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs to join it is almost impossible not to find something that interests you. Whether you want to join a political club or a sports club, there are many choices.

Bang for the buck

It may be a great school with many opportunities, but in my opinion the tuition is way too high and the school is not good with financial aid.

What to do for fun

For fun you can join clubs, join the greek life, and just make friends wherever you are.

Food and Dining

The dinning halls and the food are fairly good. There are many choices for food so there will always be something that you want to eat. There are also vegetarian and vegan options which is great.

Dorm Life

Like in every school there are good dorms and bad dorms. Over all dorm life is pretty good, the buildings for the most part are adequate and it is what you make out of your experience that counts.

Academic Rigor

The classes can get pretty difficult, make sure you don't fall behind because that can ruin your entire semester.

Tips for prospective students

Even though it is a great school, it is a very expensive school. Make sure Syracuse University is the place for you. Also, they are not very good with financial aid, so check out how much you will be receiving cause this can be a big factor.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a great school with a lot of diversity. There is plenty of opportunities to truly do what you want to do. It's has wonderful programs and is good for many majors and fields of interest.

Jessica from Fairport, NY

Department of Safety, Syracuse Police Department, and University police is everywhere.

Greek Life

There is a ton of Greek life on campus. There are a lot of people that are a part of it.

Clubs and Activities

There are plenty of clubs and activities on campus.

Great for these types of students

If you're a sports freak, this is the school for you. If you're a nerd, it might not be the best place for you. Anyone can fit in here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is the kissing bench. The whole deal with it is if a couple kisses on that bench, they will live a happy, married life together.

Bang for the buck

Eh. Extremely expensive, but is kinda worth it. I love it there and wouldn't give up my spot for anything.

What to do for fun

There are always parties going on with the Fraternities. If the party scene isn't your style, I suggest attending the sporting events. If sports isn't it, there are plenty of clubs to join. There is always something to do on campus, or nearby.

Food and Dining

Not the best food ever, but it is edible. There is a giant selection of food though.

Dorm Life

Great living spaces. Not too small, but definitely not very spacious.

Academic Rigor

It is pretty difficult, but as long as you put in the effort it should be a piece of cake.

Tips for prospective students

Use all the resources that the University provides for you, in order for you to succeed.

In three sentences

It's a beautiful campus with wonderful classes and professors. There is always something to do on campus and nearby campus. They have a high priority in academic achievements.

Christinia from Bronx, NY

There are many clubs and groups to join. The school as well as these groups and organizations put on shows, parties and other fun social events.

Food and Dining

The food is irresistible. There are many dining halls located on main campus and a dining center on south campus. The variety of food is endless and tasty.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is fun! it is where you get to meet your peers you will be encountering for your years at SU. There are many social events held in the dorms by the Residential Advisors.

Academic Rigor

It is very important to stay on top of academics for it is very easy to get left behind. At the first site of struggle it is also important to notify teachers and other University centers of this.

Tips for prospective students

I would advise the entering students should become familiar with the campus prior to the first day of classes. With the campus being so big it can be easy to get lost and you wouldn't want to be late to class the first day.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a great school full of diversity. There are plenty of opportunities to become a leader within scholastics and extra-curricular activities. Students are welcomed by individuals who are willing to assist you with your day to day transcendence.

Student

I have never run into any problems, even coming back from parties late. I feel safe to walk around campus at night by myself, although I wouldn't recommend it.

Greek Life

I don't participate but it's really big on campus but not to the point where if you aren't a part of it you're missing out. A lot of my friends are in sororities and they enjoy it.

Clubs and Activities

Some of them are unorganized and hard to get in contact with. The most well known are the newspaper and television station and a lot of people choose to be involved. The lesser known ones are usually run by few students.

Great for these types of students

Students who love big schools, students who like the cold, students who are unsure of what they want to study.

Bang for the buck

Everything is overpriced like at every other school but Syracuse's reputation is great among professionals and the community is irreplaceable!

What to do for fun

Marshall street has a lot of great restaurants and there is a free bus to the mall/movie theater on weekends. Hanging out with friends and going to the gym is also always something to do.

Food and Dining

Pretty good, probably average.

Dorm Life

I don't have anything to compare it to but my residence hall had a dining hall right next to it, a grocery store beneath it and a gym at the bottom of the hill we live on. All my friends also lived in my dorm so it was a lot of fun!

Academic Rigor

The classes are challenging depending on your major and what you choose to take. Language courses are especially difficult if you have no prior knowledge.

Tips for prospective students

Don't slack your first semester, find a few things to be involved with but not everything (there is a lot), and Newhouse is really everything you've heard. Great professors and connections.

In three sentences

A great community of diverse students! I love Syracuse for it's academic programs (I'm in Newhouse) and for the skilled professors. There is literally tons to do here no matter what your major!

Eva from Brooklyn, NY

Fairly safe; I've never felt unsafe on campus. DPS (Department of Public Safety) is always patrolling at night. There are blue lights every few blocks that you can press for help.

Greek Life

Greek life is HUGE. A large majority of campus is involved in Greek life--social, professional, or academic. It may not be for everyone, and you definitely will not feel left out if you're not in one.

Clubs and Activities

There are plenty, you just have to get out and explore!

Great for these types of students

If you like to thrift, try Boom Babies on Westcott!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I don't know about unusual, but there is a cemetery that you pass by when you travel between North and South campus.

Bang for the buck

I gave it an average rating because it is what you make of it. You can attend every event and make it worth the money that you are paying, or decide not to attend. Events hosted by organizations have all been prepaid by your student activities fee. So what's the harm?

What to do for fun

Marshall Street, Westcott, Downtown!

Food and Dining

The food may be great at first, but after eating the same meals for a year, it does become tiring. This is the same everywhere though. Shaw has the best dining, in my opinion, and usually not as crowded as the most popular Ernie Davis. There is also Marshall Street which has stores such as Chipotle, Bleu Monkey (Japanese), Mok Hwa (Korean), Funk n' Waffles, etc.

Dorm Life

We do not call the place we live in dorms, but rather, residence halls since they are not only a place for students to sleep. We have Learning Communities based on various student interests, like Fashion or Health, separated by floors. These are similar to interest groups and students meet regularly to discuss topics in these areas.

Academic Rigor

This depends on your classes, some are easy and some are hard. In the end, it is all about the amount of effort you put into it. If you work hard, it is not difficult to get an A (A+ grade does not exist).

Tips for prospective students

Definitely attend general interest meetings held by different student organizations! There are so many on campus, and you never know what may interest you.

In three sentences

Syracuse has diverse majors and boasts some of the top schools (major-wise) in the nations--for example, Newhouse School of Public Communications, School of Information Studies, Architecture. The college campus is very scenic and all the academic buildings are within a short walk. It can get very cold in the wintertime, so be ready to bundle up!

Sarah

06/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I've never personally been afraid for my safety, but you do receive emails on a weekly basis about attacks and robberies -- but that's something you expect in any city. If you make good decisions, like walking with groups and staying off of dark roads late at night, you'll be fine.

Great for these types of students

I really think anyone could fit in at SU, there are so many different groups and clubs, there's something for everyone. It may, however, be intimidating to someone who is not interested in larger campuses. It is great for students looking for professional opportunities and real-world connections. The SU alumni are constantly involved with camps life and can give great boosts in future career paths.

Bang for the buck

SU offers great financial aid and there are tons of on-campus job opportunities for pocket/book money. I'm not the richest person, so I was worried about going to SU, but the financial aid office really helps you out.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of awesome concerts and shows put on by both celebrities and student organizations and SU is a D1 school, so the sporting events are always a big deal. Buses come straight to campus, so it's not difficult to get to nearby shopping centers or performance halls.

Food and Dining

All of the dining halls serve the same foods, but some prepare the foods better. Food is always available to you, but the dining halls close pretty early, so you need to stock up on in-dorm snacks. The food itself is never DELICIOUS, but it's not the absolute worst, I mean, it'll fill you up.

Dorm Life

I guess it all depends on which residence hall you end up in, because some are definitely better than others. I, for example, lived in one of the older dorms my freshman year, so it wasn't that great. There were ants crawling in through a hall in my wall and all of the tables in the lounge were broken. But if you live in newer buildings, the rooms are extremely nice and the furniture's not broken.

Academic Rigor

I attended an all-honors high school and middle school, so I've been taking difficult courses for most of the time that I've been in school. To be honest, some classes haven't really presented a challenge. However, there were a few classes that required a lot of hard work and studying.

Tips for prospective students

SU is a big school, so it's easy to get lost in the crowd. It's really important to stay focused and not get caught up in the party scene because that can really trip you up. There are tons of chances for you to go out and have fun, but you have to remember those early morning lectures! It's not impossible to balance studies with fun during college, plenty of people do it successfully.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has a a wide-range of opportunities both socially and academically. Even though it can be hard to really get comfortable on a large campus, I felt a part of the school community. There's always something going on and that gives you a real chance to spread your wings.

Carina from Brooklyn, NY

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Clubs and Activities

Every activity, club, and association you can imagine. Greek life is very out there, and the sports are engaging.

Bang for the buck

The tuition was a downer, but you get everything you pay for. In the end, it's all worth it.

Food and Dining

A huge variety of food. Can become tiresome over a long time, but there are close places to eat around campus.

Dorm Life

Lively and clean for the most part.

Academic Rigor

Challenging, but, yet, insightful. Majors and minors of many types.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is the most well-rounded university there in New York. The weather is very chilly, but that doesn't stop the students from work and play. If you are looking for connections and are interested in networking, Syracuse has an amazing group of alumni.

Diona from NY

06/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Clubs and Activities

There are soooooo many opportunities to get involved on and off campus. All it takes is to find the organizations and activities that are best for you. If your a sports fan, get out there and cheer at the games. If you like to run, join one of our intramural teams. Endless possibilities await you at 'cuse.

Bang for the buck

SU provides a great environment but the tuition is rather high. Before choosing to attend do your research and find out whats best for your situation.

What to do for fun

There are many ways to have fun at SU, there are multiple activities to do at all times for instance go to the mall, go to parties, cheer on our teams (football, basketball, lacrosse, etc.) or simply just hang out with friends.

Food and Dining

The Dining Hall food is great just like many other schools but eventually like anything after a while you want some variety. SU has a bunch of stores nearby to campus and there is also an option to order food from the dining hall service online, I mean what more could you ask for...SU has it all.

Dorm Life

Dorming will be challenging due to the fact that there are so many personalities coming together and sometimes they don't always mesh. Regardless of if they mesh or not the forming experience allows you to learn about yourself and to grow as an individual. It also provides the opportunity to meet a variety of people which is always a plus.

Academic Rigor

The course work was difficult but I believe it was manageable. It is a little bit more difficult than high school only because of time management which can only be improved with time.

Tips for prospective students

Go into college with an open mind and be ready to make adjustments. Throughout your years you will grow as a person and have experiences that are life changing and fun. It starts getting cold early at SU and stays that way for quite a while so make sure you bring a nice warm bundle of clothing. Enjoy your time at college, meet new people, party, join clubs, and make experiences but also remember the main reason you are there, education. College is what you make of it.

In three sentences

Syracuse University (SU) provides the perfect balance of academics and social activities. The amount of opportunities available are endless and the school spirit is phenomenal. There is never a boring day at 'cuse!

Gabriella from Miami, FL

07/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Syracuse has its own police system that monitors the streets of campus 24/7. They are there when you need through phone or in person. They also offer an escort if you are feeling unsafe in the middle of the night either by foot or by car, but are generally too busy and may turn you down. Overall the campus is moderately safe if you are smart about your actions. You can walk around at night and feel secure about your safety.

Greek Life

Greek life is a huge part of campus and experiences in Syracuse. It is something that you grow to either love or hate but either way accept as it is part of your daily life. Syracuse is surrounded by Greek houses that host parties and events for students on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are soooo many clubs and activities around campus that it may not give you enough time to do them all. There are groups for every interest, culture, religion and even fan clubs. Anything you may think of, they have it.

Great for these types of students

Syracuse is great for opportunists and mostly anyone who is willing to create new experiences and meet people from all around the world. It is a place for dreamers that want to make their goals and ambitions a reality and aren't afraid of taking risks. It is also a place for people who aren't sure of their future yet, as there are plenty of opportunities to explore and experiment and find what you are good at and love to do.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a kissing bench next to the chapel which has a myth that states whomever two people sit on the bench and kiss are going to stay together forever.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is among some of the pricier schools in the country but it definitely offers everything you're paying for. If you take full advantage of everything the school offers, you will be given the opportunity to new experiences and challenges. The cost of the school fairly covers everything you're given, even though sometimes you may not get the time to take full advantage.

What to do for fun

Since Syracuse is a college town, most of the activities for students are offered on campus. There is a student-run organization that organizes concerts throughout the year, plus carnivals and other activities. There are parties on and off campus and plenty of museums and shopping around the area. Syracuse is also known for its natural environment so the school offers trips to explore these parts of the town through clubs and organizations. Hiking, skiing and cycling are some of the outdoor activities often offered through the school.

Food and Dining

Dining halls at Syracuse are plentiful and they offer a variety of different foods and menus, depending on which you decide to eat in. There are foods for every taste including deserts, breakfast, and beverages. There is also a street filled with local restaurants withing walking distance and a town square with fancier dining just a bus ride away. Syracuse offers plenty of dining for after-hours by simply ordering online through a certified website or through phone. Deliveries are made straight to your dorm without any problems.

Dorm Life

Dorms at Syracuse offer the basic necessities yet are not the focal point of the university. One merely goes to the dorms to sleep and rest, but the rest of the time is spent in class, in studios, in labs and in main campus. Dorms are well-regulated and follow certain rules and procedures in order to avoid craziness and chaos.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse is known for its intense yet enticing classes that force you to be passionate about your future career. You must be persistent and focused on your studies and your goals in order to achieve your success; it is not simply given to you. Syracuse challenges you to go one step further and experiment outside your comfort zone, in hopes of enlightening a spark that might lead to a new interest or idea. It encourages you to try and fail until you reach your goal.

Tips for prospective students

Syracuse is not an easy education that is simply given. Everyone at this school is aiming for a goal and no one stops until the day of graduation. It may take sweat and tears but in the end, the prize is worth it. Many amazing and recognizable figures have graduated from the halls of Syracuse and for that reason, you must work perisistently for what you want. There are many opportunities but you must find it in yourself to stand up and take them.

In three sentences

Syracuse is a place for opportunity and growth by offering a plethora of classes and activities that will allow you to become part of your community and interact with fellow students from across the world. It is a world-renowned university based on merit and achievement as well as interaction and perserverence. It is a place filled with opportunities for the future and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Gabrielle from Buffalo, NY

Basketball and Football games. There are many events going on every single weekend.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you visit the Office of Multicultural affairs, as well as the offices in the Schine Student Center. Many opportunities are available specifically to incoming freshman, so be aware, and ask many questions!

In three sentences

Syracuse University is very diverse, and offers many different majors. The Campus is beautiful, and the people are very nice. Syracuse University is a wonderful choice for people interested in sports!

LLPD from Hackensack, NJ

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Great for these types of students

Not afraid for humongous campus, people person, extreme love for sports (Basketball and Football specifically)

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a kissing bench there, and the myth of that bench is that if you get kissed when you sit on that bench, you will be with that person as soulmates, but if you get rejected for a kiss, you're doomed to be alone.

What to do for fun

Shopping, Skating, Watch the games, or just walk around town with friends and get good buffalo wings.

Tips for prospective students

Take advantage of all the opportunities you get when you get there !

In three sentences

My number one choice ! I wish I didn't have to leave my friends at Hartwick College, but i fell in love with Syracuse the first time I was on their campus ! It was wonderful when I went up during the summer !

Int'l Student - Philippines-Architecture Major

07/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus is huge, but monitored by both the government police and the Syracuse University Police and SUNY-ESF Police. Office and HQ is on campus. They patrol 24/7.Can call anytime and request for escort. Student only buses that run from Downtown to the Campus. Emergency booths located everywhere.

Greek Life

Probably one of the most involved in the country. It follows you where ever you are on Campus. Around 30 frat houses and some 15-20 sororities.

Clubs and Activities

MANY TO PICK FROM. You will find one that you like.

Great for these types of students

Mainly an extroverted Campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Home to the Dome is for all incoming freshmen, sort of initiation to campus. Camping outside the Carrier Dome to watch a sports game.

What to do for fun

Sports Games, Sports Clubs, Organizations - A MAGNITUDE OF THEM. Greek Life, House Parties, Frat Parties, Club/Sport/house parties. Many sports facilities around campus, gyms and fields and courts. Downtown Syracuse, malls, shopping, restaurants. Pubs, restaurants and Bars on Marshal st. Next to Campus. Drive to Ithaca/Cornell (45mins) away. Various activities held by RA's and the school. Free Lectures/ guest speakers. Activities on the Quad, and other coffee houses around campus.

Food and Dining

Most people at the school complain about the food, but if in comparison to other topnotch colleges around the nation it actually is one of the best.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is fun, the RA's are nice and have many activities for people living in the dorms. The rooms are not spectacular but they are all being renovated along with bathrooms. Bathrooms work well, you'll always find a shower to use. Fast internet connection and capability of installing Television/Cable.

Academic Rigor

There is a schism, academic rigor depends on your field of study. The most academically rigorous programs would be in the School of Architecture, S.I. Newhouse school of Public Communications, Communication Design of Visual Performing Arts, and the ischool. Aside from these majors/schools , expect to have a lot of time on your hands.

Tips for prospective students

The school is heavily involved in Greek life, parties are a must for students. If you want to be in go out a lot. Find clubs and organizations - stay busy, the weekend starts on Thursday. You'll definitely find an organization you are interested in joining; People are also usually nice.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is very expensive, but the balance between academic, social and sport life is distributed well. From my experience, the facilities are topnotch and campus life is great, not to mention the beauty of the campus. Syracuse is a great university.

Anonymous

07/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Syracuse has many activities and events thrown every night and weekend where you cannot get bored from. Anywhere from physical activities in the gym to stimulating your mind in debating and academic events. Usually when it is really pretty outside, students go to the quad and soak up the sun while reading, playing Frees-bee, or playing soccer. Also, there is a locate mall close to campus where you can catch the bus for free to enjoy the movie theater or the sport of shopping.

Food and Dining

The food and dining halls at Syracuse is good but the best is Graham Dining (On the mount), Ernie Davis, and BBB. Those three dining has the best food on campus while using your super card meal swipes. However, if you do not want to use your meal swipes and want to enjoy some food that you are familiar with, (i.e. Dunkin' Donuts, Taco Bell, Sabbro) then Schine Student Center and Kimmel has food that is also very tasty that you could your super card money or money in general. However, the dining halls does have a closing time and we do have a midnight craving, so a lot of the SU students go to Marshall Street, where it has various of food venues to pick from to eat. (It's really popular to go to after parties or gatherings with friends)

Dorm Life

The dorm life is what you make of it! If you stay in your dorm room like a turtle stays in their shell, than you will have a dull and slow freshman year. But if you choose to explore the opportunities that the dorm has to offer like anticipating in the activities or eating with your dorm mates at the dining halls, then your freshman year is going to be one of your best memories in college!

Academic Rigor

The academic is not hard but it is not easy as well. It is all of work though. It's all about discipline and time management. If you could discipline yourself to dedicate 3-4 hours to do your homework and finish it before deadline, than you will not have a problem. But if you enjoy the party life and hang out with your friends instead, than you may see yourself re-doing classes in the future.

Tips for prospective students

Going into college may seem scary because of leaving home, making new friends, living with different people, and the atmosphere. But don't worry! Syracuse has a warm welcoming greeting that instantly makes you feel that you are apart of the school. Just member to keep an open mind, a warm smile, and a love for orange and blue!

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a power, creative, free living, make-your-own-decision choices campus. Syracuse has everything to make you feel like you are right at home. But your experience is what you make of it also. So the fun, the better!

Ejona from Garfield, NJ

07/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I believe the school is pretty safe. I'm scared of the dark and yet at SU I feel comfortable running at night. There is campus security, if necessary, but I really haven't come across a situation where I need the security team for help.

Greek Life

I hope to join a sorority this fall so that I can network for the future. There are so many to choose from and so I am excited to explore and pick one. There are also fraternities for men.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club/activity for EVERYONE. My favorite club, personally, is the Mock Trial club because I was in Mock Trial in high school and because of SU I am able to continue to develop my legal skills even as an undergrad. The SU MT coaches are extremely well trained and intelligent.

Great for these types of students

That are SPIRITED and involved on campus, like me. I am extremely spirited and I also love getting involved in whatever events SU has on campus. I volunteer, intern, and have a social life.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The #44 is an SU tradition. I can't tell you what it is though. You'll just have to come to SU and see for yourself.

Bang for the buck

Honestly, I got the best deal at SU. My AP credits are transferable and so I was able to cut a year off my BA so I graduate in 3 years. I also got 30,000 in financial aid and so I am set.

What to do for fun

For fun, I go to the gym. There is a gym on my floor and so I always make sure to exercise for a healthy mind and body. There are also tons of concerts, events, and games to go to.

Food and Dining

I thought I would miss my mom's cooking, but I don't. The dining is superb and I love it. I can choose from a variety of foods and I enjoy it.

Dorm Life

At SU dorm life is great. The RAs are always there to help you, whether you have an issue with your roommate or just want some advice from an upperclassmen. They always try their best to make sure you have a great time in your dorm.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse's classes are rigorous because the professors want you to make the most out of your education and teach you as much as possible. But they are not impossible. So study hard, do your homework, and stay on track.

Tips for prospective students

Try to make the most out of your college experience. Don't just have classes on your schedule. Join clubs, study groups, volunteer, intern and do as many things as you can think of. Keep yourself busy so that you can learn as much as possible from this great university.

In three sentences

Syracuse is a diverse, spirited and extremely life changing university. Their Maxwell School currently ranks #1 in the US for public policy and so I know I am getting a great quality education. And extracurricular wise, I am able to get involved in as many clubs as I can think of.

Reagan from Lake Forest, IL

08/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus Safety is a big deal on campus! I took advantage of the Escort Services on a weekly basis. But the campus is near some rough areas, so you need to be wise about where you are going and always travel in a group!

Greek Life

Greek life is not too big, compared to other schools I know of, but the rush process is a big deal, and a commitment. I chose not to rush, but many of my friends did and are proud of their sororities/frats!

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs and activities available! I joined a sport and am part of FCA. There are a couple days where the quad will be covered with people advertising their clubs! If you cannot find one, I would be in shock!

Great for these types of students

I have friends who are complete nerds, athletes, artists, musicians, etc. Any person could mesh well here!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Team Spirit is a must at Syracuse! But there is a Winter Carnival and a full week devoted to Otto the Orange! Camping out is probably my favorite! Before any home basketball game, you can camp out at the Dome (where all football and basketball games are) for floor seats! It is wicked cold, but you get to sit in front of all the other students! My favorite spots on campus are the Orange Grove on the Quad- where you can sit under statues and get some work done without having to sit in the grass. Also, I love the patch- as my friends and I call it- which is just a hill going from the student center to the quad. The sun always hits there, and not many people will crowd there, so it's perfect to relax there between classes. Lastly, there are nice benches around the quad, and last year there was a couch out all fall!

Bang for the buck

It is a very pricey school, but I could not see myself at any other school- and I will earn two degrees from Syracuse University!

What to do for fun

There is always something to do on campus; movies, sports, hanging with friends, etc. But Friday and Saturday nights, there are free busses to the mall, and always a free bus to downtown Syracuse where there are a few smaller stores and restaurants (also a GREAT place to study for finals!)

Food and Dining

I have hardly had times that I hated the food in the dinning halls! If you get there earlier, you will beat the crowd, and get some of the better tasting food! [Avoid Sadler and Ernie Davis is usually very crowded. BBB and Graham are the best!]

Dorm Life

Not going to lie, I've seen nicer dorms, but the dorms I have been in are sized pretty well, and there is ALWAYS something to do in the dorms! I suggest joining Community Council, to help plan fun events and become an advocate for your dorm!

Academic Rigor

I definitely had easy classes, and I also had very difficult course load, but you really need to be at class to understand content. College is nothing like high school, the classes move much quicker! But professors are always available for office hours, which I cannot stress enough that future students should take advantage of, so if you can hack into your professor's brain, you can ace any course.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to walk up and down stairs, bring a fan and shorts (and sneakers), and join a learning community your freshman year! I was in the Maxwell Learning Community- which is focused on community service. I was living with 30 other students who wanted to do good in the Syracuse community, and wanted to focus on work. Most of my closest friends from freshmen year were from my LC, we were a family.

In three sentences

SU is a place where I feel comfortable to be me. I am able to have close connections with my professors so I can accomplish work on a full load of courses, manage work, be in clubs, and compete as an athlete. I do not think I would be happier at any other school.

Caroline from Madison, IN

08/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is really good about sending out alerts informing students of strange or irregular behavior. But there is also frequently police cars patrolling the campus to help students and to help watch over students. Safety is important to the students, faculty, and parents, and it is reflected here.

Clubs and Activities

There's something for everyone on campus. Including a growing LGBT group that has been sweeping across the nation in it's popularity and a lot of schools have similar clubs and programs. There are all kinds of sports, including clubs for all the sports. There's something for everyone: drama, newspaper, radio, greek life, sports, dance, and learning communities so that you are around other students that share your major and interests.

Great for these types of students

It's a wonderful communications school, as well as having a successful business program. It's a good place for students who love snow and learning.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Feel the Pulse in Downtown Syracuse is an effort to get freshman students acquainted with downtown Syracuse and all the wonderful things that are there. Home to the Dome is also an event for Freshman that teaches them cheers and gets them unified behind their team and cheerleaders for games.

Bang for the buck

The dorms are gorgeous and the dome is massive. Also the level of education received here will put you into a job if you work for it, instead of you being able to tell about the job.

What to do for fun

Visit downtown Syracuse, which is only a short bus ride away. Get involved in the activities on campus. Go ice skating. Head to one of the gyms. Go to a football or basketball game in the biggest dome on any college campus. Go cosmic bowling. See a concert at juice jam. There's always things going on around campus. Including the Dalai Lama and Whoopi Goldberg coming to campus as part of Common Ground for Peace by One World Community Foundation.

Food and Dining

So far I have not gotten tired of the food here, since they offer a lot of variety in the different dining areas, as well as each individual dining center. And it is an award winning dining service as well.

Dorm Life

I love the students, and the dorms get renovated frequently enough to make sure they're the best available.

Academic Rigor

Rated as having one of the best Communications schools, they certainly expect us to work hard and show the world what we're made of.

Tips for prospective students

Get comfortable shoes, you're going to want them on the short (but hilly) walks to class.

In three sentences

The campus has hills and stairs galore, but at least it'll help keep the Freshman 15 off. I'm glad I chose a campus with a good reputation and a beautiful campus. Three sentences are not enough to describe how much I love it here.

Aysha from Fair Lawn, NJ

Pricey, of course, but take advantage of databases that Syracuse U has available for students. Lexis Nexis, which typically goes for $10,000 a year, is free for us.

Food and Dining

We've got some good food!

Dorm Life

Some buildings are far, but are definitely doable.

Academic Rigor

Some say it's easy to get in, but I'll be the first to tell you that it isn't easy to STAY in. Things are tough here.

Tips for prospective students

During the application process, stress your participation in community service, if you have any. Community service is a BIG thing on campus and if you can play that up, you'll be good to go.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is the place to be! There are a wide variety of things to get involved in ranging from taking scuba diving as a class (and get credit) or partying on frat row. So many opportunities, you'll eventually find your niche.

Michelle from Syracuse, NY

09/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The Department of Public Safety at SU does a great job of assuring the safety of our students. Although some bad events do happen, they usually occur on the edges of campus or off of campus all together. The DPS officers are friendly and I know that they will always be there when I need help, even if I just need a ride home late at night.

Greek Life

Greek life at SU has a strong presence. If you are interested in joining, you can definitely get involved and have a lot of fun. If you aren't interested, you can still be involved with other things, but the campus presence can be overwhelming at first.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for everyone at SU. From environmental activist organizations to greek life to the dance step team, all students can find a club in their area of interest. It is easy to feel welcomed because clubs are always holding events and reaching out for new members.

Great for these types of students

Syracuse University is great for students who love being involved in a large community. Although our school has a somewhat large student body, it is easy to feel at home once you find your niche. This school is perfect for students who love to play hard and work hard.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Our Hall of Languages building served as the inspiration for the house on the show The Adams Family. Additionally, a bench to the side of this building is called the kissing bench, and any couple who sits on it is destined to be married in the future.

Bang for the buck

What makes Syracuse University unique is its commitment to scholarship in action. This involves a great deal of facilitation between the local community and the university. Students are always engaging in different community service projects and working to be a part of the city.

What to do for fun

Marshall Street is always a great place for food/bars/shopping with friends. From waffles to sushi to frozen yogurt, there really is something to suit all of your late-night hunger cravings. Its also fun to go downtown to armory square and check out the shops. There are city-wide festivals throughout the year, like Irish festivals and the New York State fair. Its always fun to get off of campus for a few hours and do something different.

Food and Dining

The dining halls at SU can be hit or miss, but for the most part there is always something good to eat! It depends on which dining hall you go to, and when. I am most happy about the fact that there are so many options to buy food on your meal plan, whether it is a coffee at Dunkin' Donuts or a meal at Ernie Davis dining hall.

Dorm Life

Dorm Life at SU is your typical dorm life at any large university. The best part about dorm life is that you get really close to the people on your floor. Your RA can serve as a mentor and your roommate can become your best friend. Dorm life at SU can be what you make of it!

Academic Rigor

Classes at Syracuse are pretty demanding, but much of it is up to what you want to get out of it. You may be assigned forty pages of reading a night, but whether you do it or not is up to you. There is a lot of independence in the coursework and no one is going to do anything for you.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone to meet new people. Joining clubs in your area of interest will not only help you make strong friendships, but it will help you gain more valuable career and life skills. Also don't be afraid to speak up in class! It is easy to get lost in a lecture of 200 students-make a good impression on your professor.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is your typical college campus; complete with ivy covered buildings and tall shady trees. There are always events to attend and helpful people to meet, including professors and fellow students. The basketball games and school pride (Go Orange!) help make life at SU the perfectly traditional college experience.

Danielle from Dunwoody, GA

09/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

DPS or the Department of Public Safety is basically 5.0 on campus. They crack down on parties if they get out of hand and can be called to give students rides to their dorms if they feel unsafe. Every SU student is given the DPS number to put into their cell phones at the beginning of their freshman year. A DPS car can always be seen circling campus at all hours of the day and night. Blue lights are also situated throughout campus for students to press if they ever feel unsafe. Blue lights can even be used to track a student if he or she is being chased. In addition to DPS, students may also use campus medical transport to get to and from campus and class if they are injured. On a scale of 1-10, Syracuse gets an 8 for campus safety. No open college campus will ever be completely free of theft or muggings, but Syracuse genuinely attempts to protect its students in every way possible. SU even enforces a rule of traveling in groups of three or more at night.

Clubs and Activities

Syracuse offers more clubs and activities than I can attempt to list here. Here are some that are new, unique and interesting: Girls Rowing Club, Gymnastics Club, Rugby, Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, Volleyball, African Student Union, Asian-American Student Union, University Union, Black Journalists Association, Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers, and many, many more.

The Carrier Dome is the Loud House! where football and basketball games take place. Students chant I believe that we will win before the start of every game. At the end of every game the SU Alma Mater is sung.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse University is totally worth the $55,600. The alumni network, degree, memories, friends you make and experiences you

What to do for fun

Syracuse students party hard! If Childish Gambino and Calvin Harris have already performed for the annual back-to-school Juice Jam concert and you missed rapper Tyga perform at Greek Freak, you are still in luck to find a bumping frat party on Frat Row or hot, Latino pajama-themed party, or your usual, jam-packed house party on South Campus Thursday through Saturday. Sunday nights are for studying, unless of course it's a four-day weekend.

Food and Dining

It is a fact that you will NOT starve while attending Syracuse University. There are simply too many places in walking distance on and off campus to either walk to or call for delivery. In addition in the infamous Marshall Street which offers a variety of small restaurants ranging from the campus favorite Chipotle, to Varsity pizza, Acropolis pizza, Oishi Sushi, Sliders, Funk N' Waffles, Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, Subway, Syra-Juice, a frozen yogurt joint and much more, Syracuse's dining halls offer a variety of fun and healthy food options everyday. And if the dining halls are closed in the wee hours of the night but you find your tummy grumbling, the Syracuse late-night cafes can definitely satisfy your cravings with the swipe of your Syracuse ID card. But even of these locations cannot satisfy your cravings, Destiny USA Mall's food court definitely will. Bus fare is free for SU studeny on Fridays and Saturdays which means access to Taco Bell, Popeyes chicken, Arby's, and Wendy's.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is suite if you live in one of the newer dorms like Lawrinson Hall, Brockway, Boland or Brewster (BBB). These residence halls mostly house freshmen because beginning sophomore year, students are given the option to live on South Campus which is a series of university-owned apartments. Students love the apartment-style living, but they love the monthly rent they don't have to pay for them even more. Living in South Campus is paid for out of housing that students pay for. But even if students don't get picked in the lottery to live on South Campus and must live in one of the most renown residence halls on campus, Flint and Day Hall on the hill, nicknamed the Mount, all hope is not lost. It's common knowledge that students get used to climbing the 178 steps to get up and down the mount to Flint and Day Hall. They end the semester with great legs.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor of Syracuse University depends on the school and academic program in which students are enrolled. Engineer and architect majors usually take the highest amount of credits that students are allowed to take per semester which gives them between 19-22 additional hours of studying per week outside of the classroom. Most students take between 15-17 credit hours per semester which is not more than an organized student should be able to handle. A student doesn't drown in homework, projects and essays at Syracuse unless they truly have no time management skills or they excel in procrastination. Faculty and staff want students to succeed. Syracuse students are challenged to rise to the high expectations of their professors, but we

Tips for prospective students

Syracuse University offers countless programs for seniors looking to apply. Whether you are an international student or a student from an affluent background or lower socio-economic background, Syracuse offers programs that give academic advisers, financial assistance and more. They especially target students who live in the state, New York City area, and Syracuse area for these programs.

In three sentences

I give Syracuse University a 9 out of 10 on a scale of 1-10 with 1 being the least and 10 being the highest. Syracuse is everything that its website, current students and alumni have promised it would be. The curriculum is rigorous but the faculty and staff truly support students and create a learning environment in which students from all backgrounds can thrive. The entire campus is devoted to offering students countless places to study, grab a late-night snack and relieve stress in healthy ways. The school spirit is palpable and the events never stop. Best of all, Syracuse is supportive in one of the most important ways that any college in America must be nowadays and that's in the financial aid department. No matter who you ask you'll hear the same story: Syracuse offered me the most financial aid. You literally could not ask for more in a university.

Kayla from Woonsocket, RI

It's a dangerous area, but the school does a good job with keeping students protected and taking the necessary precautions to do so.

Greek Life

HUGE. Many people are in sororities and fraternities, and it is easy to see that when you walk around campus. Always something going on too.

Clubs and Activities

Definitely soemthing for everyone. If something isn't offered, you can get a few friends and create the club yourself. No matter what your interest is, there will be something you can get involved in. It's easy to get involved too, and lots of fun.

Great for these types of students

Students used to diversity - there are so many different faces and cultures on campus. It's great for connections and forming lifelong bonds.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Marshall Street - Insomnia Cookies delivers until 4am.

Bang for the buck

SU is expensive. It is definitely a great opportunity and I do not regret coming here. It has given me many amazing experiences academically, athletically, and professionally as well.

What to do for fun

Greek life and the party scene are huge on campus. There are parties and events every single weekend, and during most weeks too. Athletic events are an amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity. There are many clubs and activities to get involved in as well. There is always something going on.

Food and Dining

You need to know where to go. Stay away from Sadler dining hall, and go to Ernie Davis every chance you get. There is plenty of variety and selection for every taste, and it is easy to find some great food, especially on Marshall Street and in the surrounding restaurants.

Dorm Life

Definitely an amazing and necessary experience. You become close with the people on your floor, many of which will become some of your best friends for the duration of your college career. The dorm staff do a great job too with making sure you are comfortable and enjoying your time.

Academic Rigor

SU is a very honorable school academically. With many tough classes, students work hard to maintain a considerable GPA.

Tips for prospective students

Actually read the textbooks. Many professors create exams directly from the book, and if you don't read or start falling behind, it will definitely show. Go out and experience different scenes, but make sure you save time for the things that are important to you.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a great school for diversity and variety. Between the athletics, academics, greek life, and party scene, there is definitely something at SU for everyone. It is a great school for getting involved and creating connections.

Markova from Brooklyn, NY

Syracuse has the campus police and an escort service available for anyone who doesn't feel safe where they are. For the most part, campus is pretty safe.

Clubs and Activities

We have a variety of clubs and activities such as gymnastics, boxing, fashion conscience, the university union, and so on.

Great for these types of students

Syracuse has a place for anybody, so you won't ever feel left out.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you didn't like orange before, get ready to grow a whole new liking to it up here!

Bang for the buck

Tuition is ridiculously expensive, but Syracuse is known to be quite generous in financial aid.

What to do for fun

If you like to party, enjoy watching celebrities perform or speaking at a panel, getting involved, community service, or just hanging out in your room, come to Syracuse. There honestly is a place for everybody whether your the person who likes to go out, or the person who prefers to stay home.

Food and Dining

When it comes to food, it's really what you make out of it. As far as dorm food, some dining halls are better than others. But no matter what dining hall you eat at, you WILL get tired of the food eventually. Luckily there are many little restaurants in the area to save you from dorm food.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is the best! It really gives you the chance to get to know different kinds of people and you really get to see how it feels like to be on your own. Sometimes the roommate situation can get a little nasty, but it's not something that you can't deal with. There are many resources and outlets to help you out when push comes to shove. But living with other people really creates a bond between you and your floor mates, as well as people in other dorms. One you get used to dorm life, being back home may come to feel a little strange.

Academic Rigor

I find the academics here to be really good. It makes you challenge the way you think. The variety of class is amazing as well. You can take a class in just about anything and really learn a lot from that class.

Tips for prospective students

I recommend that you guys get involved heavily with anything Syracuse has to offer. Attend info sessions, do the optional interview, make yourself stand out! This school is expensive so make sure you work hard at looking for scholarships as well! Get your applications done early, and if you know someone who went to Syracuse, let them help you. I cannot stress enough how much Syracuse students, faculty, and alumni love this school. It will definitely help you in the long run.

In three sentences

I absolutely love attending Syracuse University. This is my first time being away from home, and the people here really help make it easier. Everyone is willing to help you and any way that they can.

Nicholas from Stoughton, MA

10/30/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus Safety is very good about getting out notices and keeping this campus safe. As long as you're with someone at night you should be fine. Do not walk Marshall Street past 12 alone and never go to Thornden Park at night. Campus safety is good about responding to accidents and keeping everyone safe and sound on the campus.

Greek Life

Greek Life is very important here. I recommend doing it because you make friendships that'll last forever. It is totally worth it and so much fun. The parties are a lot of fun as well. Guys will almost always have to pay and girls get in for free. But it's so worth it. Make sure you meet the brothers or sisters when you're at the party. You will not regret doing Greek Life. This is what the campus thrives off of.

Clubs and Activities

There are various clubs and activities here. All of them you can get started in as a freshman so there is never a reason why you should have free time. There is a club and activity for almost everything and everyone tends to love the clubs and activities. You will find something to do almost instantly and make friends right away.

Great for these types of students

Syracuse is great for all types of students. Students looking for diversity, excellence in sports and great academics, you can't do much better than Syracuse. Syracuse University is the perfect school for someone who wishes to meet a lot of people and get a jump start on their career. There are so many students here, you will more than 97% find someone just like you.

Bang for the buck

The University is worth what it costs. You will receive a lot in financial aid in order to help you. The university is not expensive once you get past the $56000 for the year. By that I mean everything you need is located on your card, and you will barely if ever use your own money so you do not have to worry about that.

What to do for fun

For fun you can go to marshall street and eat food or even go to downtown. Downtown is really fun. Also there always sporting events to attend and it is only a four hour drive to New York City. You can even go chill in the quad, sit in on a lecture from one of the famous people we have speak every day.

Food and Dining

Dining is very good here. Ernie is the best choice because there is so many options but you may have to wait in lines. Graham would be the next choice because you don't have to wait but it is located on the mountain. Then comes Shaw which isn't bad it's just very hot in there. Do not eat at Sadler. Kimmel is good if you want the dining hall and its around 11pm to 2am.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is very good. If you want individual bathrooms choose Ernie or Flint, otherwise Day hall is very good but its community bathrooms. Everyone on your floor is very nice to each other and hang out and act like a family away from home. Dorm life is very easy to get used too and can actually be quite enjoyable.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor of courses is very tough depending on major and college. The teachers are very intelligent but make the courses interesting so they do not appear as hard. As long as you do the work you're not in trouble and should easily pass.

Tips for prospective students

Syracuse University is great for future students. Prospective students should definitely take a tour here and stay with a friend to fully experience this university. You will not be sorry.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is the best choice academically and socially. The atmosphere is great, the professors are intelligent and the classes are fantastic. The campus is also beautiful.

Patrina from New York, NY

11/02/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are clubs to sign up for, there are events held by Syracuse University for those that want to go out, but not go out and party. You could chill on the quad, you could chill with your friends, take a bus to the mall and shop, or go downtown and explore

Food and Dining

The food is not so great in Syracuse. At first it's really good, but then it gets tiring and you wish you were back home with a home cooked meal

Dorm Life

The roommate assignment is completely random unless you ask to dorm with someone specific. I like my roommate, the room is small, but doable, and everyone on my floor is friendly and open. We have quiet hours which is helpful to those that need their study time and sleep.

Academic Rigor

As a freshman in Syracuse University, the workload isn't that bad, but I am expecting more hard work in the future, since as an engineer in any college, it's hard work.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the school you are looking into look into what programs they have to your liking look into if the school you desire has many resources read reviews on the school

In three sentences

Syracuse University has a real campus (not like those colleges in the city where everything is spread out). The teachers here are very nice and caring and as an undergraduate majoring in engineering, there are plenty of resources to our liking to help us with whatever we need. Syracuse is big enough to meet someone new every day, but small enough to keep the friends you've already made, friends.

My from Syracuse, NY

There is always events on the weekends. If you live in a dorm the residential advisers always have something fun for your floor mates and you to do.

Food and Dining

There is always a variety of foods in the dorms. There is never the same thing in the dining halls. There are many different types of restaurants on campus as well and the food there is great to the ones i been to.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great especially at Syracuse because the community is always helpful and friendly.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse is very dedicated for the future of their students. They help with your planning and academics.

Tips for prospective students

Plan ahead and make sure you are aware of where you are going so you don't get lost.

In three sentences

One of the most fantastic schools for engineering. Very diverse and helpful community of peers. Always look forward to going to class.

Rebecca from Peru, NY

It's improving, but you have to be careful. Walking alone is extremely taboo.

Greek Life

Greek life is very popular here, but they don't harass students about pledging.

Clubs and Activities

The range is huge and the possibilities endless. The only problem is when two clubs meet at conflicting times.

Great for these types of students

If you like sports, whether playing or watching, Syracuse is where you belong. If you lie having a study sanctuary located right on the first floor of your dorm, Syracuse is also your home. Syracuse plays to the interests and desires of countless types of personalities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

People's Place. the best cafe in existence is housed in nearly the heart of campus in the basement of the chapel. Cheap, warm, and caffeinated, all SU students know it and many alumni as it has been a Syracuse icon for at least three decades.

Bang for the buck

It's private and it's expensive, but they try really hard to give out scholarship money and I don't regret my choice to come here over a less expensive school at all.

What to do for fun

What not to do for fun? You name it, Syracuse has it. Everything from dancing, to sports, to harry potter club, to an active LGBT community.

Food and Dining

We aren't starving, but it sure makes me miss my home-cooked food. Sometimes the food runs out at the end of dining hours (which are limited on the weekend) and sometimes the food that is there is cold or cooked unsatisfactorily. However, we occasionally get lucky with gems like the cider and cheese day.

Dorm Life

Alright, the fire alarm gets set off occasionally if somebody goes crazy with popcorn, but mostly my dorm mates are considerate. There are occasional incidents, but mostly it's quiet in the dorm. Students take their loudness elsewhere.

Academic Rigor

The classes are a high level, but my experience of the professors is that they are so willing to help and even provide extra credit, that the classes seem much easier than they are.

Tips for prospective students

By a coat. And a hat. And gloves. And a scarf. And maybe a space heater if you have an apartment. It's cold; it's a fact that we deal with, but also one that is quite manageable if you come prepared.

In three sentences

Syracuse is full of energy and passion. You have to really care about the success of your fellow orangemen to fit in here. Students here know they're accepted by their classmates and strive to make others feel the same way.

G Hyun from Browns Mills, NJ

Lots of assaults walking home late at night but the Department of Public Safety is there to walk you/drive you home.

Greek Life

Very big on Greek life.

What to do for fun

Parties, hanging out with friends, and going out shopping or to eat is really all there is to do in Syracuse. The city revolves around the university so it is hard to really get out of campus unless you have a car. Skaneateles is really nice, and going to Fayetteville is as well.

Food and Dining

Mediocre..Lots of food offerings but hard for people not completely used to the American diet. Mostly unhealthy foods..salad gets tiring after a while.

Dorm Life

Extremely friendly.

Academic Rigor

Classes here are challenging, but rewarding. Ratemyprofessor.com is a really great way to find good reviews on excellent professors.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard, but be well rounded and enthusiastic in your college essay. It's important to stand out.

In three sentences

Syracuse has a great campus, with the chance to take many different types of classes, even if it is not your major. The extremely diverse people help connect you with people from all around the world, and to really keep an open mind with people with differing beliefs. I've met some of my best friends from going to Syracuse!

Most of it programs are pretty good, it seems to favor Newhouse and Whitman students.

Bang for the buck

The school is good but it is very expensive, it is probobly possible to find similar quality for a lower price. But you are mostly paying for the name.

What to do for fun

The mall is the only thing, except there are many parties during the weekends but finding a decent one is based on luck, and it helps to have a friends who knows their way around.

Food and Dining

The food is not that great, and you get tired of it quick.

Dorm Life

It is decent, it mostly depends on you to meet with people.

Academic Rigor

The classes can be challenging, but with a good teacher you can do well. Ratemyprofessor.com is a great website to check out the teachers. Not every class needs to be challenging for it to be worthwhile.

In three sentences

The school education programs are pretty good, especially for media majors and business majors. The city itself is dull, you will mostly stick to the university. The social life is great if you get yourself out there.

Its great if you what to meet a lot of new people from all different backgrounds. I'm from Florida and have made friends from California, Syracuse, France and China. Also, if you're concerned about internships and out-of-college opportunities, SU is connected to a ton of firms and has many programs that come in handy when you graduate.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is always something going on at the center of the campus, on the Quad. Shows before football games, free events, giveaways and booths so that students can get to know the oranizations or different parts of the campus.

Bang for the buck

SU is a very good school, and I would say well worth the cost of attendance. Even though it is high, the school offers a lot fo aid, which is what allows me to go to SU. Also, finances there are really easy to solve because there is always someone to talk to for answers and solutions.

What to do for fun

There is sooo much to do at SU. There are lectures, socials, tons of clubs, and not to mention sport events. All someone has to do is ask a friend what is going on around campus or check there email, because we all get emails about current events.

Food and Dining

The food varies only because there may be something that you've never had before or something you already don't like. But there is a wide variety at every dining hall, and I have a good experience every time I go.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is pretty good. The RA's are very helpful with any problem or even question you may have about how the campus works. Also, the way that the residence halls are run helps everyone to really get along and to socialize. You can make a lot of friends there.

Academic Rigor

Some classes are challenging, it varies with subject. But, it comes down to your preparedness for class, paying attention and being engaged during class, and doing your homework and going to a teacher to ask for help.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that you look at colleges that have your major or area of interest. Also, if you have a question, don't be afraid to call the school. I haven't spoken to someone that couldn't help me.

In three sentences

SU is on a beautiful campus, and there's a lot of school spirit. The teachers are very welcoming to new students and to anyone who needs extra help. Also, there is always something to do alone or with friends, and resources are at your fingertips.

Mary from Schenectady, NY

12/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is excellent. There is a squad of officers solely devoted to the safety of SU. All the dorms are locked from the outside, and nobody can get in on their own without an ID. Regular safety bulletins are issued, and the campus areas are generally safe at night. Off-campus safety is a little iffy, but overall, SU is secure.

Clubs and Activities

For every interest a student could have, there is a 90% chance that SU has a club for it. SU's big campus fosters the interests of every student. SU holds regular lectures, debates, games, and concerts to satisfy the interests of every student. In short, the only way to be bored at SU is to hole up in your room.

What to do for fun

There is always something to do at SU. Greek Row throws weekly parties, and there are always sporting events to check out. There are regular Orange at Night events for non-alcoholic fun. Right off of campus is Armory Square, with year round weekend entertainment, and excellent shopping and restaurants.

Food and Dining

The food on campus is great! SU dining has won numerous awards. The selection changes every day, and there are multiple places on campus to eat, so you are never troubled for food. The dining areas are clean, modern, and comfortable. Most of the dining areas on campus take a meal plan only, while other places will take regular forms of payment.

Dorm Life

Dorm life (required of all first-year students) varies across campus. Some of the nicer dorms are placed farther away from the center of campus; the ones closer to the action are more rustic. The dorms overall are liveable; some lack water fountains, and others have temperature issues, but there are otherwise very few problems living in campus housing.

Academic Rigor

Scholarship in Action: it's not just a fancy slogan. Syracuse University prizes a student's academic success above all else. The work is challenging and the expectations are high. Success is dependent on the effort, and learning is multi-faceted. The settings for school differ based on the subject and the professor. It's not uncommon to find the great outdoors your classroom, or to sit in a small room with twelve other like-minded peers.

Tips for prospective students

Present yourself in the broadest and deepest way possible. Challenge yourself to showing what is the best and brightest of you, while leaving room for improvement. Focus on what you hope to achieve with a college education.

In three sentences

This school is the place for the serious student who also loves to have fun. People with multiple interests and ambitious goals can find whatever they need to see their goals through. It is a place where scholastic achievement is prized as well as athletic and intellectual prowess.

Max from Syracuse, NY

You're in a city (although the campus makes it easy to forget). Campus Security is all over and there to help, not out to get you, just watch out for Syracuse PD

Greek Life

This category would get the highest number of stars. You couldn't pick a better school if you're looking for Greek Life.

Clubs and Activities

Every club under the sun and a very good student activities office

Great for these types of students

People interested in Greek life and partying; however I'm neither and love campus and everything to do with it

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Carnegie Library has a staircase that dominates the front of the building and looks like it leads to doors, but don't be deceived, they're windows. It's only decorative. Also, Dome Stomping is something every visitor to campus has to do. Jumping up and stomping down in a concrete column at the Carrier Dome creates an echo that can only be heard by the person in the column.

Bang for the buck

It's an expensive college, but what isn't (I guess in state schools) but it's definitely worth it. You'll learn as much, if not more, than any other college. But you're really paying for the experience, and SU doesn't lack in that aspect.

What to do for fun

Primarily students attend sports (basketball or football) at the dome or go out partying. However there are plenty of other events on campus, you just have to look a little harder for them.

Food and Dining

You aren't going to come to Syracuse for it's food. The lowest mandatory dining plan for freshman comes out to $13 meal. The food itself isn't bad itself, but after it rotating on a 3 day cycle, you get sick of it. Food on Marshall St (only a block off campus) is good and reasonably priced.

Dorm Life

Dorms aren't bad but certainly aren't great. Picture a typical college dorm and thats what you're going to get. RA's are generally nice and aren't too strict. Bathrooms have recently been renovated to private bathrooms shared by the floor (which is very nice)

Academic Rigor

Once again, this depends on the college you're in. Class aren't particularly a challenge for me but thats not to say they're aren't hard classes. It's easy to balance your classes with other aspects of your life.

Tips for prospective students

Don't sweat the application process for SU or any school. Syracuse is known for Newhouse (communications), Maxwell (business), and it's iSchool (it's gaining popularity). Every other college is easy to get into, applications depend on the college you apply to, not the university as a whole. Also, partying isn't mandatory, there are plenty of things to do other than going out to get drunk.

In three sentences

Syracuse is great because you get a college with large student population benefits, but still don't feel overwhelmed. It's all about basketball, greek life, and partying. Classes are thrown into that mix somewhere.

Sarah from North Syracuse, NY

01/02/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Emergency lights are all around campus. Visiting friends have told me that they've never seen so many at their own colleges. If you're out at night, Public Safety will give you a ride to wherever you're going if you just give them a call.

Greek Life

Lots of Greek life here. We have our row on Walnut Street, and then there are more houses dotted around the East Neighborhood. They're awesome for parties, but make sure you don't get roofied!

Clubs and Activities

There's lots to do on campus. They even have their own student-run ambulance! Every fall there is an activity fair that lets you know what's happening on campus and what there is to do.

Great for these types of students

Any student will find their niche here!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The number 44 was that of many football legends at Syracuse. Ernie Davis, Floyd Little...everytime anyone sees or hears the number 44, you have to say Go Orange! Also, the Junction is the littlest big place on campus. Known for its milkshakes, it can only be accessed by Mount residents after 8 pm, but it opens at 7:30pm.

There's a lot to do for fun around Syracuse, you just have to look for it. You can go to DestinyUSA (the sixth largest mall in America), go ice skating at Clinton Square outside in the winter, and so much more!

Food and Dining

The two best dining halls are Graham and Ernie Davis. Amazing food and a huge selection!

Dorm Life

Most dorms have activities that you can partake in to get to know people. The dorms are mostly pretty big, and very comfortable, as well.

Academic Rigor

It depends on the classes you take.

Tips for prospective students

The Mount is the best place to live! It keeps your butt in shape with the 117 stairs to the dorms!

In three sentences

I never expected myself to go here because it was so close to home. Unfortunately, though, the college I wanted to go to didn't give me enough financial aid. So I came to Syracuse and I am loving it!

Sometimes you make friends and sometimes you don't. There are dorms up in the mountains, and there are ones that are at the perfect locations.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you get a scholarship before you come.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a very diverse school with a gorgeous campus that's so big that you would think that one can get lost here. It is full of polite people who makes you feel uneasy when they are holding the door for you even though you are 3 feet away. You won't miss out here.

Riddy

This is up to the individual! Its a good sized campus, right next to down town and all it takes is a little bit of adventure!

Food and Dining

Lots of option! They are always thinking of how to make things better.

Dorm Life

Transportation system is great, dorm community life is great - but the physical environment is not the most modern.

Academic Rigor

You realize that striving for excellence is infinite, you set your own standards.

Tips for prospective students

When you are coming to the city, you have to understand that you are coming to experience college, and not so much a new city. The city is a humble city and there is little outside the campus unless you are part of a community, or enjoy a very big mall.

In three sentences

Syracuse is truly an amazing school. Like all programs in life, it has its flaws, however one can gage its success by monitoring the speed at which it is advancing. Syracuse is quickly moving in the right direction. On aspect that I'm the most fond of is that the University is brimming with opportunities to become engaged in the immediate and broader community.

Fatima from New York, NY

Everywhere you go there's going to be crime and all that stuff. DPS seems to get on top of things, I haven't experienced anything where I was robbed or anything.

Greek Life

If Greek life floats your boat, you'll be fine finding opportunities.

Clubs and Activities

Caribbean Student Association: Street Team CSTEP Full Circle Mentoring Program

Great for these types of students

Outgoing, Hardworking, Determined, Love bipolar weather and SNOW! Went to boarding school in Utah but from NYC, however the weather doesn't compare to anywhere to those places.

What to do for fun

Whatever floats my boat: party, movies, shop, chill.

Food and Dining

It's pretty decent. Sometimes the food gets boring after away but having friends attending different universities, Syracuse has better dining than most.

Dorm Life

Two campuses! Main campus is great with the various dorm locations. All the dorms have its pros and cons ranging from different bathrooms, close to class buildings, get a lot of exercise it or having dining hall in your dorm.

Academic Rigor

Prepare to challenge yourself and work hard. You need to be your own advocate in college. You will go far by doing that. Study, take notes, pay attention, build relationships with your professors and you will be fine.

Tips for prospective students

Beautiful campus! So many endless opportunities are offered at this school. One great thing I love about Syracuse is the various majors and minors offered. You really don't find that much in a lot of colleges. Diversity is great! No exaggeration intended. This is a great college, you won't regret it.

In three sentences

Syracuse University offers a great education. Everyone who attends Syracuse for a few enjoys it. Have an open mind and take advantage of all SU offers.

Audrey from Eugene, OR

02/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Greek life is big, and a great time! If you don't wanna go greek, there are still plenty of parties on the weekend. Syracuse sports are excellent so those are always there, and the VPA school has a ton of cool drama programs.

Food and Dining

Like anywhere, the food gets old after a while. Its not bad, and there are a lot of options, but it is receptive after a few years.

Dorm Life

The freshman dorms are great. You get to know your building really well, and more likely than not, this is where your best friends will come from.

Academic Rigor

The Newhouse school expects a lot from you, but they give a lot back. The teachers are always available to talk to make you the best you can be. You have to work at it though.

Tips for prospective students

First tip, attend Syracuse! The campus is big so get a handle on it as soon as possible.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is amazing. From the excellent education you will receive at any of the schools, to the always active social life, there is never a dull moment here. Syracuse's diverse campus has a spot for everyone, and is a great place to get your education.

Liz

02/14/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

The school prides itself on being diverse but this is somewhat far from the truth. In reality, the school is very white, even students from other countries look white, so people with darker complexions stand out like flies in milk. Students of similar ethnicity tend to stick together, thus creating little minority cliques.

What to do for fun

Gym, organizations, greek life, volunteer work, and parties

Food and Dining

Food is good, many options, but after a while it all tastes the same.

Dorm Life

Usually floors become families, but that is not always the case. Also it all depends what building you're in because rooms vary so much in size.

Academic Rigor

It all depends on your major and what classes you choose, of course some courses are ridiculously easy, but others you have to work, work, work.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to deal with different types of people coming from different backgrounds, since this is a top-notch expensive private school preppy rich kids are the norm, and they're the most self-centered individuals you will ever meet.

In three sentences

There is always something to do. Greek Life plays a huge role on campus. Has every major imaginable.

Rajah from Syracuse, NY

The Department of Public safety is cool except if they crash a party lol

Great for these types of students

If your a black or hispanic male where going to college isn't something people are used to. I would recommend this school to you because it will change the way you view the world

What to do for fun

Go to the gym Play basketball Parties Homework sometimes is fun Chill with you friends on the floor

Food and Dining

It has its days .

Dorm Life

The dorm life is an amazing experience. Its really like your inner connection to Syracuse. Without it the school is to big to figure things out.

Academic Rigor

Lol Its not hard and its not to easy, it stimulates your mind and provokes creative thinking.

Tips for prospective students

One tip that i have for prospective students is to attend Syracuse University events. They give a lot of insight as to how the school works as a whole.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a mini America. It gives you an amazing insight to the world you will soon be apart of. Its definitely an eye opener if you come from a small town. I rate Syracuse University a 10.

Kerlyne from Roselle, NJ

02/25/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is anything from late nights at the gym whee they offer a variety of dance, yoga, karate, and other physical training classes and clubs. There is literally something for everyone. I personally enjoy the entertainment aspect. Being a part of many dance organizations myself I never hesitate to support fellow organizations when they have shows and such. They are usually not too far apart so always be on the look out for one after you've attended one.

Food and Dining

There's so many options on and off campus its hard to say you dont have options. Past freshman year you even have the opportunity to have your own ktchen and be your own chef!

Dorm Life

I cant say dorm life was the best my freshman year, but the friends and bonds you form, make those community bathrooms worth the while. Fortunately for the newer classes, the bathrooms are renovated and look absolutely beautiful! You're a very lucky bunch! I hope you're not the reason why my tuition is going up!

Academic Rigor

Syracuse is highly competitive. While there are many opportuties to succeed, it is your responisibility to take advantage of these opportunities. You're paying for it, so when it comes to academics take it seriously. Everyday is an opportunity to find your future job, future research project, your future career.

K from MD

Greek life is definitely present, but not everyone I know is involved.

Clubs and Activities

Tons of things to do!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

People kiss on the kissing bench!

Bang for the buck

I'm very satisfied compared to all of my friend's schools.

What to do for fun

Go to concerts, join clubs, or party.

Food and Dining

Dining hall food, some days it's good, other days not so much.

Dorm Life

Some dorms are definitely way better than others, but a lot of freedom with guests and etc.

Academic Rigor

Some courses are incredibly difficult, especially the science courses. However,some are also easy.

Tips for prospective students

It is very cold up here, but worth it. Make sure you visit the campus to tour and get a site for it yourself.

In three sentences

Syracuse University it a great school with a beautiful campus. The student population is very diverse, with just the right amount of people. Classes can be challenging, but there are people out there to help.

Molly from MA

Syracuse is basically the ghetto and you shouldn't travel around late at night all alone.

Greek Life

They say that its only 30% of people are involved in Greek life on campus but its totally more popular than that.

What to do for fun

For fun I hang in the lounge with my friends while we do homework. Then on the weekends we go to parties at the frat houses or other house parties near by.

Food and Dining

Dinning hall food is dinning hall food. It doesn't really matter where you go it will probably seem good at first and then it just becomes blah.

Dorm Life

I love dorm living. Syracuse has split doubles which is the best thing ever, its like a wall right down the middle so its the best of having a single but still having a roommate. The dorms aren't that nice though.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on the major some people are working so hard and take intense class while others are taking pretty easy class and don't have to put forth too much effort but when the classes are hard they're hard.

Tips for prospective students

Buy a nice winter coat and a pair of snow boats that are as cute as they can be because you'll need them.

In three sentences

I love SU! people say they bleed orange here and I didnt understand why and thought I wouldnt but I do, it sort of just happens like one day you wake up and realize that you love SU.

Paige from Queensbury, NY

03/14/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are so many things to do at Syracuse! Destiny USA, a huge mall, has so many stores, restaurants, not to mention a movie theater, an indoor racetrack, and a high ropes course. Syracuse also offers many good concerts throughout the year. If you are a fan of sports, make sure to hit up the basketball, football, and lacrosse games!

Food and Dining

There are several different dining halls that offer the same food. There is also a late night dining hall on main campus that offers food until 2 am to satisfy those late night cravings.

Dorm Life

There are so many different dorms on campus with all different kinds of rooms that can fit your needs. Syracuse also has South Campus which offers apartment style housing that gives you more independence.

Academic Rigor

Syracuse classes are challenging. However, TA's and professors have office hours where you can always get help if needed. The work may be harder, but there is always enough time to get it done.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved! There are so many great organizations and clubs on campus. You don't have to be a big sports fan to go here, but the games are so much fun and a great way to meet new people.

In three sentences

Syracuse is an amazing school that offers great opportunities for students. It is a very diverse university that allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and learn more about others. Syracuse is big enough where you can meet new people always but not too big in the sense where you feel insignificant.

Syracuse Student

On the weekends, there are always student events such as concerts, or performances. The schools does throw a couple parties a year!

Food and Dining

There is so much food to choose from but if you are not careful you can start putting on weight. It is vital for everyone to watch what they eat. The food here can always be better.

Dorm Life

The dorm life was a great experience. Friends will be the ones to help you make it threw college. You have to be open to living with someone, seeing new faces, and using a community bathroom.

Academic Rigor

The Academic are very Rigorous but you can do very well if you just study and attend class. It is possible if you really want to do well. The teachers are always able to help.

Tips for prospective students

A tip for prospective students would be to stay focus. Things can feel over welcoming but if you stay focus and ask for help you can get threw anything. Staying on top of your work is extremely important.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has been an amazing school to far. The teachers are great and always available to help. I have had a great experience with the educational aspect of being here.

Brianxis from New York, NY

SU is big on Greek life. You can't walk by the quad and not expect to see the majority of the students wearing Greek letters. At least that is what it seems.

Clubs and Activities

Join early and become active. Many orgs to choose from.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Mayfest happens at the end of every April. It is so much fun. Everyone has would be outside playing games. There is music coming from all directions and there is a concert held later that day.

Bang for the buck

This school is very expensive so try to file for financial aid. other than that try to get campus jobs as soon as possible. You can work in food services (cafe's and dinning areas) which are the best paid. you can also sign up to work for Schine or campus catering(pay well).

What to do for fun

Workout! Take advantage of the gyms and get ready for spring break early. There are parties all the time whether its a off-campus, frat, or a south party, expect them in the weekend. Syracuse University puts on many events such as concerts, banquets, comedy shows, laser tag, ect. Be on the look out!

Food and Dining

I thought the food was amazing when I first got here but then it gets boring. I think the offer a good variety.

Dorm Life

It is definitively worth it freshman year but then by sophomore or junior year it gets old and you start to want your own space. It is beneficial because you are able to make friends with the people in your dorm complex.

Academic Rigor

It depends the class.

Tips for prospective students

Do not get a 19-mealplan. You won't eat that much since there is barely time. Do not spend all your money on Marshall street; learn how to budget! You should take advantage of your professor's office hours, it truly helps. Also, try to save your elective courses for abroad.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has a vibrant atmosphere. There is a great amount of school spirit.There are many opportunities offered and a wide variety of classes to choose from.

From P.R

Extremely safe. A very active police safety department here on campus. They offer late night ride's back to your home, escorts, emergency telephone services on every corner. The best.

Greek Life

One of the biggest things on campus, when you come in you will understand.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many I can't even count them. This I say with complete honesty, there is a club for everything here, you just have to find it.

Great for these types of students

Open-minded. Foreign. Easy-going. Ready for something very different.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Orange everywhere on every major event.

Bang for the buck

It is a very expensive school. Be extremely sure of just how much aid you will receive; they are not to benevolent with the aid here.

What to do for fun

Everything. There is always something going on. Be it a speaker, a large event, a sports game, a march, a gathering, a movie. There is always something.

Food and Dining

Marshall street is packed with restaurants and delicious food places for a quick bite.

Dorm Life

Even the worst dorms are pretty good and comfortable. You will slowly learn which are better for living and make your choices accordingly.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on your major. If it is in Newhouse, Architecture or Science then you will be challenged. Every other major is average on rigor.

Tips for prospective students

Come in with an open mind. Bring plenty of warm clothes. Prepare for a life changing experience. Get ready for a campus that is always buzzing, there is always something to do.

In three sentences

A truly profound college experience. The diversity is astounding, you will meet people from backgrounds with roots all over the world and you will share a sense of community that a low number of campuses can say they have.

Chloe from Tiburon, CA

04/22/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Safety is great on the campus. DPS (Department of Public Safety) is constantly on patrol. You can call or text them anytime you want, and at night, they are always available to pick you up and escort you home if you feel uncomfortable doing so alone.

Greek Life

Greek life is very popular and very fun, but don't feel obligated to participate. There are enough people who take part in Greek life and enough people who don't take part that it won't feel like a requirement.

What to do for fun

Destiny USA is a huge mall in Syracuse with practically every store and attraction you can ask for. The have a giant movie theater, restaurants, tons of shopping stores, and even amusement park rides. There is also a great place in downtown Syracuse called Armory square with lots of great little boutiques and shops and delicious restaurants such as Pastabilities. Downtown, there is also the wonderful Everson Museum and delicious Dinosaur BBQ. If you like nature, there is the Green Lakes National State Park not to far from Syracuse.

Food and Dining

The food in the dining halls is extremely high quality considering it is a college dining hall. You have sandwich bars, salad bars, fruit bars, omelet/egg bars, waffle bars, stir fry bars, pasta and pizza bars and so much more. If you get tired of the dining hall, there are tons of food cafes around campus and lots of good restaurants right off campus.

Dorm Life

Some dorms are not as good as the others, but for the most part, the dorms are really nice. They stay clean and warm and fairly quiet, and it is the best and fastest way to make friends.

Academic Rigor

It depends on the professor or class, but classes at Syracuse range from being fairly easy to very hard. You don't really know until you take the class.

Tips for prospective students

Bring lots of winter gear - even if you think you don't need it, you probably will. Be open-minded about the different classes you can take while in college; there are so many. Don't limit yourself to the easy A classes, challenge yourself and take a class that you would never get to take anywhere else.

In three sentences

Syracuse University has a beautiful campus. The S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications is a fabulous journalism and communications school. It gets very cold in the winter, but luckily the campus is small enough to get to your classes and dorm quickly.

Stiles from Bakersfield, CA

There is an unlimited amount of food available but its not 5 star quality.

Dorm Life

This is a top 10 party school according to princeton review.

Academic Rigor

There are certain classes that may come as a challenge but the course work is reasonable .

Tips for prospective students

If you're a prospective student prepare to have the best time of your life.

In three sentences

This institution is an excellent place for a young mind to experience all aspects of college. With an excellent basketball program and a strictly enforced no hate policy. This campus is ideal for any prospective student planninng to further their studies.

Joolee from Northbrook, IL

Greek life is BIG here. About a fourth of the school is involved in greek life.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of activities set up through school called Orange After Dark

Food and Dining

The first month and half you'll love dining hall food! But after that it gets old, but no worries! You'll be able to enjoy some variety on Marshall Street.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great, and I would recommend choosing random roommate because it's honestly not that bad!

Academic Rigor

The tests are tricky and especially for biology, the questions and made to trick you. But honestly, the professors don't teach you anything.

Tips for prospective students

I really recommend this school. To be honest, this school was my last choice school and I was planning to transfer.. But in the end, I planned on not transferring because this school is really awesome.

In three sentences

This school is definitely one of a kind. A lot of orange school pride and a lot of diversity.

Jen

05/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Syracuse is a party school, which is what a good portion of students do on the weekends, party. The school does plan Friday night activities for those who don't party, but Saturdays and Sundays, you are on your own.

Food and Dining

Some of the dining hall food is bearable, while others, Sadler, is barely tolerable. However, there are a lot of restaurants in the area who deliver.

Dorm Life

Depending on where you end up living, dorm life could be a blast or a train wreck. There are lots of first year dorms, such as the Mount, Sadler, Lawrinson, BBB, which are further away from the main quad. They require the use of stairs to get to class, which becomes hazardous in the winter.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the classes that you take and your overall course load, Syracuse can either be extremely easy or extremely difficult. Lots of people take very easy courses in order to boost their GPA in their first year.

Tips for prospective students

Take a variety of classes in order to figure out what you want sooner rather than later. Also, try to find friends within the first few weeks, because it will get harder later.

In three sentences

Syracuse University can give you some of the best years of your life if you choose to be involved. Athletics and Greek life are a big deal here, which is something to consider. Your social skills, if you have any, will get you far.

Son Tuyen from Manchester, NH

05/21/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

When a crime on/near campus occurs, they send everyone an email. Most of the incidents I've read about have been muggings. It's probably best not to walk home alone at night if you can avoid it, especially if you live further away from campus like I did.

Great for these types of students

Affluent. Interested in sorority/fraternity life. Art students.

Food and Dining

Food is not too bad, they have a lot of options in terms of being able to have cereal/salad whenever. The food they cook, on the other hand, tends to be the same ol' same ol' unless a special event is going on. So every now and then the food will be either really good, or just 'meh'. That's why I prefer to just make a sandwich half of the time.

Dorm Life

The dorm I stayed in included a lounge, a gym, and a food court of sorts in the basement. The split double system at SU is great, and I recommend that freshmen choose this option (if you cherish your privacy at all). If you're like me, you won't appreciate the level of loudness during the weekends when people are getting ready for parties. The walls are awfully thin. Also, be prepared for random fire alarms at late hours in the night.

Academic Rigor

For the most part, each class will have its challenging aspects. I can only speak for my school, VPA, but having taken psychology and philosophy classes, I will say that lecture classes demand some critical thinking on your behalf. That being said, certain classes will be boring and will therefore incapacitate your ability to learn. But as long as you study well and don't fall behind on assignments, you should end up with a decent grade. It's difficult to pull off a 4.0 GPA, but anything above a 3.4 is respectable.

Tips for prospective students

Students from the west/south coast will definitely need to invest in some winter gear and adjust to some harsh snow. If you end up in Boland Hall, you might want to think about leaving for your class about ten minutes early, because that's how long the walks usually are.

In three sentences

An expensive school with a beautiful campus and, on occasion, extreme weather. The Student Center and Bird Library are very helpful places, and there are food options in almost every important academic building. Depending on which dorm you live, walking to class everyday can be a bit of a trip.

Izzy from Manlius, NY

05/31/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Sometimes it seems like there's nothing to do in Syracuse, but there's tons of great dining, shopping, and entertainment options! The theatre community around is one of the best in the US! There's always something to do or see.

Satisfied

DPS is almost everywhere on campus, but a,ways use the buddy system...better to be safe than sorry!

Bang for the buck

SU tuition is very expensive but the school is very good about financial aid. In my opinion it's 100% worth the money because it has everything

What to do for fun

Social life is awesome at SU with thousands of students. Their are plenty of clubs, organizations and parties to keep you busy! Just try everything out and see what's best for you!

Food and Dining

The dining halls have a great selection of food, but not gonna lie at times it gets a little boring. Ernie Davis is the best one but it's a pain if you don't live near Ernie, but worth the trip.

Dorm Life

As much as it may suck the dorms on the mount are the best, especially flint hall. For the most part bathrooms are well maintained and some dorm rooms are bigger than others but utilize the space to the max.

Academic Rigor

Academics at SU are very good. Make sure you find your professors style of teaching and grading so you will be successful in all your classes!

Tips for prospective students

When applying and after being accepted make sure you are on top of your tuition, scholarships and grants. Also, make sure you meet many people and keep an open mind. Their are so many new experiences waiting to happen

In three sentences

SU is everything someone could ask for in a school. From the great academics to the sports environment to the huge campus...I found it a perfect fit for me!

Kaitlyn from Exeter, NH

Greek life is prevalent on campus and is definitely an option for any student who wants to participate. However if you chose not to it does not negatively impact your social experience.

Great for these types of students

Students who love sports, who love to get involve, and who love being apart of something big.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Peoples Place is a student run cafe in the basement of Hendricks Chapel and it is the cheapest place to buy coffee and sandwiches on campus!

What to do for fun

Attending sports games, especially basketball is a must! The new additions to the mall, Destiny USA, are also a good time.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved! There are hundreds of clubs and activities to participate on campus and its a great way to meet people!

In three sentences

An amazing school to attend for numerous reasons. Their academic programs are top notch and allow for students to graduate with the tools necessary to be successful. The community aspect of the campus is also very strong despite the large number of students.

Hamid from Darien, CT

06/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

The gym is packed with frequent visitors with squash and raquetball courts. As well four basketball courts and a boxing area in the basement. Also, two swimming pools which add to the already great Archibold Gymnasium. The campus is never quiet, there will always be people out and about. Many concerts and events will take place on campus and this will always keep one busy.

Food and Dining

There are many options for food and local restaurants are walking distance. The dining halls have a large variety of food and provide many healthy alternatives.

Dorm Life

Each Dorm has its own perks. The key to dorm life is to make sure you are open to making friends. Everyone is experiencing the same emotions you are.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the college one has been accepted to, the academic rigor is challenging but the professors know how to teach. In highschool, the teachers were very lenient. In College, the professors are always willing to help and will not turn you away.

Tips for prospective students

If I could change one thing, it would be to take advantage of the summer opportunity before freshman year. It allows you to get acclimated to the college setting. It also allows you to venture around campus and meet students on a smaller scale. SummerSTART is a great way to be introduced to the University.

In three sentences

Syracuse University allows you to find your true self, while connecting with a diverse group of students. I had been accepted into other colleges but that atmosphere at SU is something I could not pass up. The professors and students add to a dynamic environment which emphasizes the importance of community.

Melissa from Chicago, IL

DPS (campus security) are always nearby. They do a pretty good job watching over the campus and providing safety for students. Most incidents happen off campus by non-students.

Greek Life

1/3 of students are a part of greek life. They're everywhere.

Clubs and Activities

Too many to list. There's something for absolutely everybody!

Great for these types of students

Outgoing party goers. Broadcast journalism students. People who bleed Orange.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The kissing bench. The People's Place. Panasci. Hogwarts. Anything related to the Dome.

Bang for the buck

College in general is expensive. Syracuse is especially expensive. A lot of students come from higher income families so they don't mind spending so much. For those of us who don't have that luxury, there's a lot of financial aid. Just not enough sometimes.

What to do for fun

PARTY. PARTY. PARTY. Syracuse is one of the top party schools. There's a ton of frats and sororities, so there's a party basically every night. Attend as many Orange After Dark events. There's laser tag, bowling, ice skating and so much more! There's also school held movie viewings, tons of concerts, and just hanging out with friends exploring the campus.

Food and Dining

Dining hall food can get old, FAST! You will be dying for the nights when you eat off campus. Go to Marshall St. and hit up Chipotle and Varsity or head over to the mall and eat there. The food isn't too terrible. The selection just rarely changes.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is better than expected! Most rooms are splits so you have your own privacy. People on your floor can be disgusting especially when it comes to the bathrooms. Make sure you clean up after yourself! Form a close bond with your floor and RAs.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on the classes you take. There are several very tricky classes that if you can, you should stay away from. Mostly the sciences with labs. Other classes can be fairly easy as long as you attend classes regularly.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you find friends from all different groups. Get to know new kinds of people and don't get trapped in cliques or solely with like minded individuals.

In three sentences

I love going to Syracuse. Overall it's a wonderful school. I can't wait to go back.

rebecca from ohio

armory square is a great place for going out to dinner or walking around during the nice weather. its one of the nicer areas of downtown syracuse.

Food and Dining

As a transfer student, i never ate in the dining halls. Most people i talked to didn't mind it, but like all schools, the food gets old.

Dorm Life

I was a transfer student so I never lived in the dorms. they seemed decent however.

Tips for prospective students

A car really helps! The bus system isn't reliable.

In three sentences

Syracuse has great students with a good balance between work and fun. The city itself is really lacking, but there is plenty to do within the university. I think this is a great university and you can really have the college experience.

Korey from Horseshoe Bay, TX

07/29/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is so much to do outside of class at SU. You can go to the mall (the sixth-largest in America, by the way!), or go ice-skating. The city of Syracuse is also a very interesting place, so exploring all of it is an awesome option as well! And of course, there are a lot of events happening on campus, as well as off. Juice Jam and MayFest are the two concerts SU hosts at the beginning and end of the semester, and they're a must! But, the New York State Fair is also held in Syracuse, and it is an absolute blast! And obviously, there are plenty of parties to go to every weekend. You will never be bored at SU. Ever.

Food and Dining

The food at SU did not impress me much. The dining halls were full of the same old, same old, and a lot of it was kind of yucky. However, Syracuse does have plenty of food options OUTSIDE of the dinning halls. You can use your SUperplus points to buy food at other on-campus venues. Marshall Street also has many awesome restaurants, and there are plenty of delivery options. So, no matter what, you won't starve.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is very dependent upon where you live. Freshman room assignments are completely random, so you mostly just have to make the best of it. If you get stuck on The Mount, make friends with your neighbors; you'll be spending a lot of time with them up there, and chances are you'll find a few lifetime friends with them. Pretty much wherever you live, you need to make the best of it.

Academic Rigor

SU has some really awesome classes and professors. But of course, with that, comes some not-so-hot courses. However, most classes are very interesting and worth while.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to branch out of whatever cliche you were in high school. SU is very open to all kinds of people and is very good about giving you a plethora of opportunities to try new things. Get to know the campus. At first, campus can seem very large and confusing, but if you walk around it a few times before class begins, and walk your schedule, you'll be a pro by the first day of class. HAVE FUN! Yes, classes can be stressful, but don't forget to have fun with friends and try new things!

In three sentences

Syracuse University is like a breath of fresh air. You can figure out who you are and what you want, all while getting a top notch education and making life-long memories. It is truly amazing.

Megan from Syracuse, NY

DPS is there to help but only when it's really convenient for them. Keeping that in mind, always walk home with friends!

Greek Life

Greek life is as greek life does.

Clubs and Activities

We have something for everyone -- quidditch, bowling, habitat for humanity, comedy groups, a'capella! Everything you could ever want and more, I promise.

Food and Dining

Most of the dining halls have tons of options, even great food for vegetarians or vegans! Ernie is always busy. Brockway is delicious but really far away. Graham is a secret gem. Everyone seems to have a favorite, but don't let anyone fool you. The real gold mine is Sadler.

Dorm Life

Dorms are small, especially at BBB. Just be kind to your roommate and don't bring too many things. Overpacking is usually unavoidable, but you learn as you go along.

Academic Rigor

Intro classes are medium level difficulty. Just take things you are interested in, or it will not be a fun experience.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to become friends with new people. Join clubs just to get to know everyone. Be nice to your RA but don't tell on your floor-mates. Avoid Ernie Davis Dining Hall around dinner time because you'll NEVER find a table!

In three sentences

Syracuse University has an amazing student body, everyone really does bleed orange! The campus is beautiful, but bring a jacket for the cold. Lastly, the academics are great -- everyone knows how capable Syracuse graduates are!

Muhammed from Syracuse, NY

There is always something going on in Syracuse University on a daily basis so you will rarely be bored. But what I do for fun is basically hang out with friends and go to the mall.

Food and Dining

The food is not bad as well.

Dorm Life

The dorm life is awesome establish great relationships early.

Academic Rigor

Work hard and study hard. Some classes are a bit challenging and other classes are not as challenging but you still have to put in the necessary work.

Tips for prospective students

Plan ahead and have an idea of what exactly you are interested in. College is all about trial and error at the end of the day but everything goes much smoother once you have a solid framework of your plans.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a great school that presents great opportunities. The faculty and staff are great as well as my peers. Going to Syracuse University is easily the best decision I've made in my life.

Los Angeles, CA

Syracuse downtown has a lot of things to do and always have fun events that are held throughout the semester.

Academic Rigor

Classes are very engaging and can learn a lot from the courses you take in Syracuse University.

Tips for prospective students

Talk to counselors and keep a close relationships with all your professors!

In three sentences

Syracuse University provides a lot of connections for students to follow. Counselors and professors are always there to help the students. This school was a great way to start off an undergraduate career.

Anonymous

10/02/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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In three sentences

So far out of all the schools I've researched, Syracuse seems to be the one that stands out. For one they have my intended major, I like the atmosphere, and there seems to be a lot. I'm really looking forward to having the chance to attend.

Jackie

DPS is awesome, sometimes a buzzkill on weekends but they do what they have to do. You'll always feel safe no matter what time or location you are in, they are just one call away.

Greek Life

I'm not too sure about this topic. They have an abundance to choose from though, just make sure you do your research and talk to people.

Clubs and Activities

They have a wide variety. If you're into outdoors and traveling, there is something for you. If you're into dancing or stepping, there are all kinds of clubs you can join. If you are into community service, there is definitely something for you, If you've heard it before, Syracuse has it and if they don't, you can definitely propose it.

Great for these types of students

All types, you'll find someone just like you. There are too many people for you not to find someone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's nothing unusual. Sports here are big and if you're not a sports fan, become one. Buy season tickets, at least for basketball because they're good, at least. Always take pictures with Otto and go to all the free games!

Bang for the buck

If this means what I think it means then this school costs way too much money. If you don't have a lot of financial aid or scholarships going for you, be very weary of coming here. Yeah they offer a lot of opportunities but for 50 thousand a year?

What to do for fun

There are parties every weekend. There are special school-wide events every weekend. University Union tries to play a movie every Wednesday or weekend unless something goes wrong and you can always join different clubs and organizations for fun. Gyms are open late night 10pm-1am too!

Food and Dining

You can find good food here SOMEWHERE...unless you're vegan then you're out of luck. There are also a lot of nearby delivery places if you get tired of the food and some places even accept your Superfood money ($160 you get every semester). Definitely take the 14 meal plan, you find that you don't have much time to be able to eat 3 times a day.

Dorm Life

I believe it's great. I was really lucky in my placement which allows me to be close to where all my classes are and have 5 minute access to both larger gyms on campus. The bathrooms in my dorm are individual and are kept generally clean and the rooms are pretty decent sized-- much larger than I've seen in other schools.

Academic Rigor

As an engineer major, it is definitely difficult and harder than I expected. You will be challenged here if you allow yourself to be. There is a lot of hard work involved and a lot of self-motivation that has to be generated in order to do your best.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely try out the Learning Communities if your major provides it. Definitely join as many clubs as possible--don't think just because you're a freshman, you can't get involved.

In three sentences

It has a beautiful campus with a very diverse population that you don't see in most universities. Regardless of it's ranking on a National Scale, you will be challenged here. It has a way of making things small in a big campus.

Elizabeth from Portland, CT

DPS is our campus safety. They are the ones always patrolling on the weekends. definitely have become a little more strict because Syracuse was rated the number five party school in America.

Greek Life

Greek life is big at Syracuse. The good thing about Syracuse is that they won't let freshman rush till the spring semester. This allows students to get a feel for the campus and what sorority or fraternity they want to join or not join.

Clubs and Activities

Offer basic clubs and sports.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students that want to get the full college experience. If you hate athletics this may not be the place for you. Also if you are used to the city atmosphere you may be underwhelmed by the city of Syracuse.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Cool places include People's Place (ask for the Austin Powers), Marshall Street, and the Dome.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse is expensive in my opinion. Often feel that I'm entitled to more, but it makes me figure it out on my own. Overall, I still feel that I made a good investment by choosing Syracuse.

What to do for fun

Most people, especially freshman, stay on campus. So the main things we do are party on the weekends. Most people go to the fraternities, South Campus, or to DJs. Other than that, most people but season tickets so that they can attend the sports games at the dome. Warning though... buying football season tickets is kind of a waste.

Food and Dining

Food is average. You can often find people complaining, but it is really not that bad. Plenty of options. Most dining halls stay open till 7:30 but Ernie Davis stays open till 9!

Dorm Life

Dorms are average. Some dorms are renovated and bathrooms are nice. It mainly is about location. Flint and Day are up on the hill and the stairs suck to get there. BBB is kind of out of the way, but it is a big freshman dorm. I live in Shaw, which is a very old building, but is close to most things.

Academic Rigor

It depends on what program you are in. Our Architecture program is outstanding and those students never sleep. Syracuse is also most well known for Newhouse, our communication school. Overall academics are fairly strong here, but they definitely don't compare to any ivy league.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to buy winter apparel because Syracuse gets the Lake Effect. Also greek life is kind of big here. Come in with an open mind about it because it helps plan out your social life.

In three sentences

Syracuse has a lot of school spirit and we basically bleed ORANGE! Medium size school that loves its sports. Just be ready to deal with the snow!

Anonymous from Syracuse, NY

01/22/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is pretty safe. You do have to be careful at night because there are robberies and it can be dangerous right off of campus. Certain places you need to avoid at night. There is the department of public safety that you can call is you feel uncomfortable and they will pick you up and bring you to where you need to be.

Greek Life

Greek life is a big part of the school. It is definitely a party school.

Bang for the buck

Its a great school and you will get a good education. The tuition is roughlly $36,000 and this does not include housing and meal plan, book/supplies, class fees, and other expenses.

What to do for fun

There is a lot to do in Syracuse, but if you don't have a car it can be difficult to find things to do. The down town area is very small and you have to take a bus (about a 10 - 15 minute drive). There are a lot of activities organized by the school, you just have to keep an eye out for them. There are also exercise classes that you can sign up for each semester and they are very fun and there are lots of options. You do have to pay a fee, but it is worth it.

Food and Dining

The food gets old very fast and are not the healthiest options. Some dinning halls are better than others and have more options.

Dorm Life

I live in a split double room and it is very nice. There is a wall that divides me and my roommate so we don't have to worry about personal space or keeping each other up with our light when one of us is studying late. The rooms are decent size, but as a design student, it can get cramped. Also, you have to live on campus for your first two years of school, but there is the option of the south campus apartments that you can apply for for your sophomore year. It is a 20 minute walk to the main campus and a 10 minute bus ride.

Academic Rigor

Be ready to put in a lot of studio hours if you are a design student. Professors really push you to do your best work and except perfection. They are also very helpful and will take time to help you when you ask. They are very nice and don't want you to struggle or fail; they are on your side. There are a lot of opportunities for internships and exposure as well.

Taylor from Santa Rosa, CA

We have a lot of on/off campus robberies. I wouldn't say Syracuse is located in the best area.

Greek Life

There are too many sororities and fraternities to keep track of - I would say Syracuse is the top school for greek life.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs - the majority are focused on school newspaper/magazines and clubs inside of the business school.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students wanting a strong sense of school pride.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The mascot is an orange named Otto... people really like him.

Bang for the buck

Syracuse provides great learning experiences. They also really work with your financial situation to provide scholarships and aid for students to attend.

What to do for fun

Most students go to Marshall Street for fun. It is a street located on campus containing various dessert, food, and beverage stores. Besides that, there is another street not far from campus called Wescott Street where students can eat and go to bars.

Food and Dining

The food is pretty good. There is always a large selection based on preferences and food allergies. Our gluten-free and vegan sections are actually really good and there is a lot of delicious food found here. We have a really large and diverse salad bar at all of our dining halls (my favorite part). At every single dining hall, you can find a selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, sandwich bar, Chinese food station, Italian food station, pizza station, etc.

Dorm Life

The dorms are cleanly and the people are friendly. It seems that each floor from whatever building you are on bonds and many friendships start from people you meet in your building.

Academic Rigor

Depending on your major, classes can be challenging or more laid back. Being dually enrolled in the Business and Communications schools, I can say that you learn a lot from each course. Our school rankings for various programs in the Whitman School of Management and the Newhouse School of Communications are very highly ranked on a national level. Our geography and architecture schools are also ranked highly.

Tips for prospective students

If you are someone who needs city life or other activities to keep you involved outside of school or school life, I would not recommend Syracuse. There is not much to do here other than school. There is barely a downtown in the city of Syracuse and not much to do in general around this area. Life can get pretty boring. The weather can get pretty gloomy... a good winter jacket and snow boots are essentials. If you are interested in a sense of school pride and greek life, this is a good school for you. It is rare to find someone who isn't involved in a sorority or fraternity and it seems that those involved in greek life have an even greater sense of community and love for Syracuse.

In three sentences

Syracuse University is a great school for someone looking for school pride, greek life, and excellent academics. The school is very diverse and the campus is beautiful. With that being said, there isn't much to do in Syracuse other than the school itself.

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